Shout out Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Public Appreciation Use 'shout out' to express public gratitude or appreciation to someone in a casual way. During the concert, the singer gave a shout out to her fans. Pro Tip 2/3Social Media Context 'Shout out' is often used on social media to promote others or say thanks. Here's a shout out to my friend's new YouTube channel! Pro Tip 3/3Not for Formal Use Avoid using 'shout out' in formal contexts; it's seen as casual or informal. You wouldn't give a shout out in a formal business report.