Extolling

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To praise enthusiastically or celebrate with great admiration | To express high approval or commendation for someone's qualities or actions | To glorify or elevate in status through fervent appreciation or acclaim
2. To enthusiastically praise someone or something while celebrating their merits | To elevate and honor through vigorous commendation and admiration | To express fervent approval and acclaim for the qualities or achievements of a person or thing
3. To express admiration or praise vigorously while celebrating the virtues of a person or thing

Etymology: The term "extolling" traces its origins back to the Latin verb "extollere," which means "to lift up" or "to elevate." This Latin root reflects the physical act of raising something high, both literally and metaphorically. When "extollere" was absorbed into Old French as "estoller," it began to take on a more figurative meaning, focusing on the elevation of someone’s qualities or virtues. By the time it made its way into Middle English as "extollen" in the 15th century, it had developed a clear connotation of praising or glorifying someone or something to an elevated status. The first recorded use of the modern form "extolling" appears in English literature in the late 16th century. Notably, it was employed by writers such as Sir Philip Sidney, who was known for his poetic works and his advocacy of the elevation of virtue through art and literature. This usage solidified the word’s association with the act of high praise, often in a somewhat formal or grandiose context. Over time, the meaning evolved to emphasize not just the act of praising, but doing so to a degree that suggests a lofty or almost exalted admiration. This shift is particularly interesting because it highlights how language can transform the physical act of lifting into the abstract concept of elevating someone’s reputation or worth through commendation. As such, extolling came to embody the act of not only recognizing excellence but also actively promoting it as something worthy of admiration and reverence. Today, the term is often used in contexts ranging from literature and speeches to everyday conversations, where individuals extoll the virtues of a person, a cause, or an idea, thereby continuing the rich tradition of elevating what is deemed worthy through the power of language.

Synonyms: praising, lauding

Antonyms: criticizing