ζήτω
zíto/ˈzi.to/
The Greek phrase for "hurray" is ζήτω (zíto).
ζήτω is used as an exclamation to express triumph and celebration, or to express support for a specific person, idea or nation.
What does it mean word for word?
The word ζήτω is the third-person singular present subjunctive form of the verb ζώ, which means "may he/she/it live".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
ζήτω carries a more formal, traditional or even patriotic tone compared to modern English exclamations like "yay".
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈzi.to/. The stress is on the first of two syllables.
Did you know?
- The verb ζώ used in ζήτω shares a deep root with the word ζωή, meaning 'life', which is the foundation for the English word 'zoology'.
- In historical contexts, ζήτω was used to hail the Emperor of Byzantium, echoing the Roman 'Ave' in its function as a formal salute.
- While ζήτω is used for triumph, Greeks often use the phrase ωπα for spontaneous, loud celebrations like those found at weddings or parties.
Examples in context
- Ζήτω η ελευθερία!Zíto i elefthería!Hurray for freedom!
- Ζήτω η Ελλάδα!Zíto i Elláda!Hurray for Greece!
- Ζήτω η νίκη!Zíto i níki!Hurray for the victory!
Example conversation
Kyriaki and Giorgos are celebrating a promotion.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΠήρα τη δουλειά!Pira ti douleia!I got the job!
- Γιώργος GiorgosΖήτω η Κυριακή!Zito i Kyriaki!Hurray for Kyriaki!
- Κυριακή KyriakiΕυχαριστώ πολύ, Γιώργο!Efcharisto poly, Giorgo!Thank you very much, Giorgos!
- Γιώργος GiorgosΝα πάμε για γιορτή!Na pame gia giorti!Let's go celebrate!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ζήτω, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
