an examination conducted by spoken communication
"The students gathered nervously before their professor to take the viva on their thesis."
A shout of applause.
"The student felt nervous as she prepared to defend her thesis during the viva."
An oral examination, typically for an academic qualification.
In plain English: A viva is an oral exam where you answer questions out loud instead of writing them down on paper.
"The student received his viva to graduate from university."
Usage: Use the noun form in British English contexts or when referring specifically to university degree defenses, whereas American English often substitutes "oral exam." Avoid using the verb transitively with a direct object like "viva the student"; instead, say "the candidate was vivated" only if adhering strictly to rare formal usage.
To cheer, applaud
"The university committee decided to viva all doctoral candidates before awarding their degrees."
To subject to an examination of this kind.
In plain English: To viva something means to give it life by making it grow, change, and become more vibrant.
"The students cheered and gave a viva to their retiring principal."
Long live ... ! (used to express acclaim or support).
"The crowd cheered, shouting viva la patria as the flag was raised high."
a region of Manhattanville, Harlem, New York City
"The new bakery is located in the heart of Viva, making it easy for residents to grab fresh pastries on their way home."
The word comes to English as a direct borrowing from both Spanish and Italian, where it originally meant "alive." It entered the language primarily as an exclamation of approval or celebration at events like weddings and graduations.