Laud

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /lɔːd/

Definitions

1. To praise or express approval of something or someone in a way that shows great admiration and respect
2. To publicly express high praise or admiration for someone or something, often highlighting their exceptional qualities or achievements
3. To express admiration or approval vocally or in writing while emphasizing the exceptional qualities or accomplishments of someone or something

Etymology: The verb "laud" has a surprising sibling: "lied" is German for "song," and "lēoþ" was the Old English word for a song or poem. All three descend from a single ancient root, *leh₁wdʰ-, which meant something like "song" or "sound" and was probably echoic in origin. Latin turned that root into "laus," meaning praise, glory, or renown, and the verb "laudāre" grew from it: to praise, to celebrate. English took the word through Old French "lauder," which entered Middle English as "lauden." Praise and song were close companions in the ancient world, since a public tribute was often sung or recited, and that link survives here. The English verb "laud" is a doublet of "lead," in the sense of a song or hymn, and the two words split apart after entering English through different routes.

Synonyms: praise, commend, acclaim, applaud, celebrate

Antonyms: criticize, condemn, denounce