applaud

[uh-plawd]

verb (used without object)

1. to clap the hands as an expression of approval, appreciation, acclamation, etc..

   They applauded wildly at the end of the opera.

2. to express approval; give praise; acclaim.

verb (used with object)

1. to clap the hands so as to show approval, appreciation, etc., of.

   to applaud an actor; to applaud a speech.

2. to praise or express approval of.

   to applaud a person's ambition.

applaud

/ əˈplɔːd /

verb

1. to indicate approval of (a person, performance, etc) by clapping the hands

2. (usually tr) to offer or express approval or praise of (an action, person, or thing)

   I applaud your decision

Other Word Forms

• applauder noun
• applauding adjective
• applaudingly adverb
• overapplaud verb
• reapplaud verb
• self-applauding adjective
• unapplauded adjective
• unapplauding adjective
• well-applauded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of applaud¹

1530–40; < Latin applaudere, equivalent to ap- ap- ¹ + plaudere to clap the hands

Word History and Origins

Origin of applaud¹

C15: from Latin applaudere to clap, from plaudere to beat, applaud

Example Sentences

India’s illiberal turn has alienated parts of America’s Democratic Party that once applauded the country for its democratic culture and religious pluralism.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But somehow the commotion remained strictly outdoors; the only distractions inside came from the orchestra’s ardent fans routinely applauding between movements.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Clad in a blue blazer, black sweater and neck tie, Sarkozy walked down a cobblestone pathway where he was greeted by his children and a crowd of applauding supporters.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Grimes applauds the couple’s thinking about ways to stay in their home should disability strike, and their willingness to contemplate a move into retirement housing if needed.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"We applaud this decision that comes after six years of litigation to hold NSO accountable for targeting members of civil society."

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• approve 
• cheer 
• commend 
• compliment 
• encourage 
• hail 
• laud 
• praise 
• recommend