Extoll

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

  1. To praise highly and enthusiastically | To celebrate or commend someone or something with great fervor | To elevate in status through ardent admiration and acclaim
  2. To express high regard and admiration for someone or something | To elevate the status of a person or thing through enthusiastic praise | To celebrate with fervor the qualities or achievements of someone or something
  3. To enthusiastically applaud and elevate in status through commendation To highly celebrate or praise the merits of someone or something with fervent admiration To express ardent approval and admiration for the qualities or accomplishments of an individual or object

Etymology: The term "extoll" is derived from the Latin "extollere," which means "to raise up" or "to elevate." The prefix "ex-" translates to "up" or "out," while the root "tollere" means "to lift" or "to take away." This etymology captures the essence of the word's meaning: to raise something to a higher status or to praise it highly. The transformation from Latin to English occurred in the early 17th century, with recorded usage appearing around the year 1620. In its journey into English, "extoll" has retained its original sense of elevation and praise. It conveys a strong sense of admiration, often used in contexts where individuals or ideas are celebrated for their virtues or achievements. This connection to elevation is more than just literal; it evokes a sense of lifting someone or something up in a metaphorical sense, showcasing the positive attributes or accomplishments deserving of recognition. Interestingly, "extoll" exists alongside its more commonly used counterpart "extol," which is simply a variant spelling that has become predominant in modern usage. The similarity in pronunciation and meaning reinforces the idea of elevating something through praise. Despite the slight variation, both forms highlight the act of commendation and have been employed in literary and rhetorical contexts to emphasize the virtues of individuals, ideas, and cultures. Through its rich linguistic history and its persistent relevance in the English lexicon, this verb serves as a reminder of the power of words to uplift and commend, reflecting a fundamental human desire to celebrate what is admirable in our lives and the world around us.

Synonyms: praise, laud

Antonyms: criticize