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Definition of applaud

applaud

/əˈplɔːd/
ap · plaud
Adjective:applaudable
•
Past Simple:applauded
•
Past Participle:applauded
•
Present Participle:applauding
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applaud Lexical Profile

applaud Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To show approval or enjoyment of a performance, speech, or event by clapping the hands repeatedly.

Example

"The audience stood up to applaud the orchestra at the conclusion of the symphony."

2

To express strong approval, admiration, or praise for a person, decision, or achievement.

Example

"Environmental groups were quick to applaud the city council's initiative to expand public transit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for applaud

• Nearby Words

appetizer
appetizing
appetizingly
applaud
applaudable
applauder
applause

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin applaudere ('to clap the hands in approval'), formed from the prefix ad- ('to') and plaudere ('to clap, strike, or beat'), which is also the root of 'plaudit' and 'explode'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Applaud. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/applaud
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