applaud
verb (used without object)
to clap the hands as an expression of approval, appreciation, acclamation, etc..
were 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.
They were applauding, announcing a social program for the elderly.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 8, 2026
“I could watch it at home. But these anniversary screenings are meant for the community. People were applauding when the shark was caught. You don’t get that at home.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2025
And when I went to make my bow and people were applauding me, I begun applauding the soldiers.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 25, 2023
The audience clapped excitedly after the movement, either inspired by its feeling or thinking they were applauding the end of Clara’s Romances.
From New York Times ● Jan. 26, 2023
The Gryffindors all along the table were applauding him; the Weasleys and Hermione all wished him good luck, and he headed off out of the Great Hall with Cedric, Fleur, and Viktor.
From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling
