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noun

noona

NOO-nuh
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Noona (noun) means a Korean term used by a man to affectionately address an older sister or older female friend. Example: “He always calls his older cousin "noona" out of respect.”

noun
1
A Korean term used by a man to affectionately address an older sister or older female friend.
"He always calls his older cousin "noona" out of respect."

How to use noona

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA respectful, affectionate Korean word a younger man uses for an older woman close to him.

When to use it

Increasingly used in English by fans of Korean pop culture and dramas.

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Word forms

Plural
noonas
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He always calls his older cousin "_____" out of respect.

Etymology

Borrowed from Korean 누나 (nuna), meaning "older sister of a man."

Origin: Korean

Related words

Rhymes for noona

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Frequently asked questions

What does “noona” mean?
The word “noona” means a Korean term used by a man to affectionately address an older sister or older female friend. In plain terms, a respectful, affectionate Korean word a younger man uses for an older woman close to him.
How do you pronounce “noona”?
“Noona” is pronounced NOO-nuh (/ˈnuːnə/ in IPA).
How do you use “noona” in a sentence?
Here is “noona” used in a sentence: “He always calls his older cousin "noona" out of respect.”
What part of speech is “noona”?
“Noona” is a noun.
Where does the word “noona” come from?
The word “noona” comes from Korean. Borrowed from Korean 누나 (nuna), meaning "older sister of a man.".

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