noona
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.”
How to use noona
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA respectful, affectionate Korean word a younger man uses for an older woman close to him.
Increasingly used in English by fans of Korean pop culture and dramas.
Word forms
noonas plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He always calls his older cousin "_____" out of respect.
Etymology
Borrowed from Korean 누나 (nuna), meaning "older sister of a man."
Rhymes for noona
See all rhymes for noona →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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Vocabulary lists that include noona: