applause
[uh-plawz]
- hand clapping as a demonstration of approval, appreciation, acclamation, or the like.
- any positive expression of appreciation or approval; acclamation.
Show More
Origin of applause
1590–1600; < Latin applausus struck upon, applauded (past participle of applaudere), equivalent to ap- ap-1 + plaud- clap + -tus past participle suffix
Synonyms
See more synonyms for applause on Thesaurus.com2. acclaim, plaudit, praise.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for applause
Contemporary Examples
He led the packed cathedral in applause for Ramos and Liu and asked Bratton to bring a message to the men and women of the NYPD.
And one person started clapping, and then the whole room erupted in applause.
‘Pride’: The Feel-Good Movie of the Year, and the Film Rupert Murdoch Doesn’t Want You to SeeMarlow Stern
October 13, 2014
Their speech was met “very warmly, with applause,” according to bishops briefing the press afterwards.
The Vatican's Same-Sex Synod: The Bishops Hear About Reality. Do They Listen?Barbie Latza Nadeau
October 12, 2014
“For someone to scream, that is like applause to us,” Harlacher said.
New York’s Scariest Night Out: The Ghosts, Rats, and Lunatics of ‘Nightmare New York’Justin Jones
October 4, 2014
Of course, this was greeted with a round of applause and whoops from her room of willingly incarcerated followers.
Historical Examples
This short speech was received with applause by the combatants.
A Sketch of the Life of Brig. Gen. Francis MarionWilliam Dobein James
Her applause was not languid applause, neither was it without discrimination.
The Foolish LoversSt. John G. Ervine
On the tide of applause which congratulated the boat's only baronet, I rose.
It Happened in EgyptC. N. Williamson
When I came on to the stage I was always greeted by applause from these young men.
My Double LifeSarah Bernhardt
Victor Hugo finished his speech in the midst of applause and cheers.
My Double LifeSarah Bernhardt
applause
- appreciation or praise, esp as shown by clapping the hands
Show More
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for applause
n.
early 15c., from Latin applausus, past participle of applaudere "approve by clapping hands" (see applaud).
Show More
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper