Skip to main content
A motivational cry used by the United States Marine Corps. Sometimes also used as a general response to an order or question. Recon Marines in Korea (1953), traveling by submarine, often heard the dive klaxon which sounded like "Aarrugah." These Marines began using the word as a motivational tool, but it was too long and slowly became modified into what it is today. It was popularized during the 80s and 90s.
"Get some!"
"Oorah!"
-
::Marine climbs rope at the end of the obstacle course and slaps the wooden beam at the top, yelling "Oorah!" ::
-
"Son, you good to go?"
"Oorah, Sir!"
-
"Grab that pack!"
"Oorah, Sir!"
oorah by USMC Officer Candidate February 26, 2005
oorah mug front
Get the oorah mug.
See more merch
Oohrah by SKITORAMA March 16, 2010
Marine Corps response in the affirmative and as a cheer and to signify that a Marine is ready for action.

Started with Marine Amphibious units during the Korean War in 1953. Many Marines had to be delivered to shore by means of submarine. On US Submarines the klaxon alarm sounds when the vessel is about to dive with its classic "Aoogah" sound. When Marines on the submarine heard this distinctive sound it usually meant that they were about to go into battle on shore very soon. It soon became shortened to "Oorah" and signified that a Marine was battle-ready.
Are we going to accomplish this mission? Oorah, Sir!
oorah by JJNYC December 18, 2007
What was once a motivational term in the Marine Corps for many, and also a word of acknowledgment. Its use has now become travesty for many demotivated Marines that don't believe enthusiasm should be allowed in their environment.

It is rumored that its origins are in a Turkish term for "Kill", and also possibly from the Korean War when the submarine would sound an "Awwoogahhh", the Marines knew this meant battle was near, and they shortened it to "Oohrah!."

The modern Oohrah is not used as much, particularly in the Air Wing it seems. Still a great term when used appropriately, and with some heart, just like the "Devil Dog" or "motivator" term.
Sergeant/Corporal of Marines: "Oohrah motivator, how are we doin' today?!"

PFC Schmuckatelli: "Ohra (read: Errr)."

OR

Commanding Officer of Unit: "We're leaving for Iraq on this date, are we ready?!"

Motivated Group of Killers: "OOHHRAHHH!"
Oohrah by MotivatedCorporal May 1, 2009
Military slang for 'yes sir' or 'agreed'
oohrah by JH November 15, 2004
I've heard it said that "Oorah" is derived from the Turkish word "To Kill", and was picked up and adopted by United States Marines during the Korean war. Today it's used as an all-purpose grunt of affirmation, much like the Army's "Hooah", or the Navy SEAL's "Hooyah".
oorah by Herb October 27, 2003
A word used by US Marines when they don't know, don't care. Used as a greeting, verb, noun, pronoun or anything else the Marine wants it to be at that time. Also scares some civilians if said loud enough.
How you doing today Devil Dog?

Oohrah SgtMaj!(Fuck you dude)
oohrah by BmoreDog May 3, 2010