applause

[uh-plawz]

noun

1. hand clapping as a demonstration of approval, appreciation, acclamation, or the like.

2. any positive expression of appreciation or approval; acclamation.

   Synonyms: praise, plaudit, acclaim

applause

/ əˈplɔːz /

noun

1. appreciation or praise, esp as shown by clapping the hands

Other Word Forms

• applausive adjective
• self-applause noun
• unapplausive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of applause¹

1590–1600; < Latin applausus struck upon, applauded (past participle of applaudere ), equivalent to ap- ap- ¹ + plaud- clap + -tus past participle suffix

Example Sentences

The applause was more than appreciation for a movie.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As expected, some of Swift’s more questionable lyrics — many of which were exponentially funnier as clean versions — garnered some chuckles, and “Actually Romantic,” an alleged Charli XCX diss track, notably concluded without applause.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Royal Air Force paratroopers drew a grand applause after a coordinated display of parachute work that saw them float down to the shores.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As the session began the audience were asked not to applaud because "cumulatively applause could knock out a whole question," in a hall that was far from full.

Read more on BBC

“There’s a tone to applause in movies and TV that I don’t think exists in real life,” Armisen says.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acclaim 
• accolade 
• kudos 
• ovation 
• praise 
• standing ovation www.thesaurus.com