applaud
verb (used without object)
to clap the hands as an expression of approval, appreciation, acclamation, etc..
was applauding
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past progressiveof applaud.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Everyone was applauding and smiling at me,” he says, confessing to having been extremely nervous.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 3, 2026
"When we got the record all the stadium was applauding, we had the number on the screen and in the second half we were able to keep the record in our hands," Michu says.
From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2022
“I already know one of our neighboring states was applauding our efforts and wants to be able to sell our plans in their own state,” Cameron said.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 22, 2018
Not everyone was applauding the firing for its swiftness.
From Washington Times ● Oct. 9, 2017
He was alone in the sky, but somebody was applauding him, watching him and applauding.
From "Song of Solomon" by Toni Morrison
