Applaud

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /əˈplɔːd/

Definitions

1. To make a noise, often with hands, to demonstrate approval or enjoyment for someone's performance or achievement
2. To show praise or approval by repeatedly striking the palms of the hands together
3. To demonstrate approval or admiration for something by clapping one's hands

Etymology: Applaud began as a physical act before it became a judgment. Latin "applaudere" combined "ad," meaning "to," with "plaudere," meaning "to strike" or "clap," so the original sense was simply the sound of hands striking together. The Latin verb carried this literal meaning, and English took it through Middle English "applauden" with the same core idea. Latin "plaudere" is also the root of "plaudit," a word still used for a burst of public praise, and "explode," which the Romans reportedly used of theatre audiences hissing or clapping an actor off the stage. Both show how closely approval and noise were tied together in the Roman world.

Synonyms: clap, cheer, commend, praise, acclaim

Antonyms: criticize, condemn, denounce, disapprove, rebuke