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Synonyms

applause

American  
[uh-plawz] / əˈplɔz /

noun

  1. hand clapping as a demonstration of approval, appreciation, acclamation, or the like.

  2. any positive expression of appreciation or approval; acclamation.

    Synonyms:
    praise, plaudit, acclaim

applause British  
/ əˈplɔːz /

noun

  1. appreciation or praise, esp as shown by clapping the hands

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • applausive adjective
  • self-applause noun
  • unapplausive adjective

Etymology

Origin of applause

1590–1600; < Latin applausus struck upon, applauded (past participle of applaudere ), equivalent to ap- ap- 1 + plaud- clap + -tus past participle suffix

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At my installation Mass, one of the strongest moments of applause came when I spoke about working with all people of goodwill for the common good.

From The Wall Street Journal

The action is punctuated by booming sound effects — canned applause, the “wah-wah” of a sad trombone and a hyperactive electronic buzzer, among them — coming from a trigger-happy soundboard operator behind the coffee counter.

From Los Angeles Times

When asked for a response to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, he said "grub" which drew applause from the audience.

From BBC

The remark drew thunderous applause before the joint session of the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

A Venezuelan dissident sprung from prison surprised his niece in the gallery, to applause.

From The Wall Street Journal