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Definition of declaim

declaim

/dɪˈkleɪm/
de · claim
Adjective:declamatory
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Past Simple:declaimed
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Past Participle:declaimed
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Present Participle:declaiming
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declaim Lexical Profile

declaim Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To utter or deliver words or a speech in a rhetorical, impassioned, or dramatic manner, as if addressing an audience.

Example

"The actor stood at the center of the stage to declaim his final monologue with sweeping gestures."

2

To speak inveighingly or protest loudly and passionately against something (usually followed by 'against').

Example

"Throughout the town hall meeting, several residents rose to declaim against the proposed zoning changes."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for declaim

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'declaim' (to speak loudly and rhetorically) with 'disclaim' (to deny responsibility for or renounce a legal claim).

• Rhymes for declaim

• Nearby Words

decker
deckhand
decking
declaim
declaimer
declamation
declarable

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Latin 'declamare', meaning 'to practice public speaking or cry out aloud', formed from 'de-' (expressing completeness) and 'clamare' (to shout).

Cite this Entry

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