acclaim

[uh-kleym]

verb (used with object)

1. to welcome or salute with shouts or sounds of joy and approval; applaud.

   to acclaim the conquering heroes.

2. to announce or proclaim with enthusiastic approval.

   to acclaim the new king.

verb (used without object)

1. to make acclamation; applaud.

noun

1. acclamation.

acclaim

/ əˈkleɪm /

verb

1. (tr) to acknowledge publicly the excellence of (a person, act, etc)

2. to salute with cheering, clapping, etc; applaud

3. (tr) to acknowledge publicly that (a person) has (some position, quality, etc)

   they acclaimed him king

noun

1. an enthusiastic approval, expression of enthusiasm, etc

Other Word Forms

• acclaimer noun
• reacclaim verb (used with object)
• unacclaimed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acclaim¹

From the Latin word acclāmāre, dating back to 1630–40. See ac-, claim

Word History and Origins

Origin of acclaim¹

C17: from Latin acclāmāre to shout at, shout applause, from ad- to + clamāre to shout

Example Sentences

Since her start in the business, Kurata has gained acclaim for her ability to infuse daring prints and vibrant color into the narrative worlds she deals with.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The 195-minute film opened to critical acclaim and was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, including best picture.

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While he has not produced a successful and critically acclaimed new musical in many years, the better-known works in his catalog have been spruced up by innovative directors.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Earlier this year, Ms. Case published an acclaimed memoir, and several songs here seem connected to that project’s introspection.

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The bourbon revival in Kentucky began in the late 2000s, coinciding with the debut of the critically acclaimed TV series “Mad Men.”

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Related Words

• acclamation 
• applause 
• commendation 
• kudos 
• praise 
• rave 
• recognition