Extolls

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To praise highly and enthusiastically | To celebrate or commend with fervor and admiration | To express deep appreciation and admiration for someone or something
2. To express enthusiastic approval and commendation for someone or something | To highly celebrate and extol with fervent admiration and praise | To convey earnest accolades and appreciation toward a person or entity
3. To hold someone or something in high regard through fervent praise | To express enthusiastic commendation and acclaim for an individual or concept | To enthusiastically celebrate and elevate the worth of a person or an idea

Etymology: The term "extoll" is derived from the Latin verb "extollere," which means "to lift up" or "to elevate." This Latin origin combines "ex," meaning "out of" or "from," and "tollere," meaning "to lift" or "to raise." The journey from Latin to English occurred through the medium of Old French, where it appeared as "estoller." By the late 15th century, the word found its way into English, where it took on the more specialized meaning of praising highly or glorifying. The first recorded usage of "extoll" in English dates back to around 1495, which reflects its initial association with the act of lifting or raising something in a figurative sense, particularly in the context of admiration or praise. The transformation of its meaning from a physical action to an abstract one is a common trajectory in the evolution of language, showcasing how words can adapt to new contexts while retaining a sense of their original essence. Interestingly, "extoll" has a close relationship with the word "toll," which also stems from "tollere." In contemporary usage, "toll" has taken on more concrete meanings, such as a fee for passage or the ringing of a bell. This connection illustrates the fascinating ways in which words can diverge in meaning yet share a common lineage, revealing the intricate tapestry of the English language and its roots. In modern usage, to extoll something is to speak of it with great enthusiasm and admiration, often highlighting its virtues or accomplishments. This act of praising elevates the subject in the eyes of others, in a sense lifting it to a higher status, which beautifully ties back to its original Latin roots.

Synonyms: praises, lauds, applauds, celebrates, commends

Antonyms: criticizes, denounces, disparages