applause

noun

ap·​plause ə-ˈplȯz 

1

: marked commendation : acclaim

the kind of applause every really creative writer wants

—Robert Tallant

2

: approval publicly expressed (as by clapping the hands)

a round of applause

Synonyms

• acclamation
• cheer
• cheering
• ovation
• plaudit(s)
• rave(s)
• réclame

Examples of applause in a Sentence

The announcement was greeted with applause and cheers.

a design for a memorial for the victims of the attack that has received nothing but applause from officials, commentators, and the general public

Recent Examples on the Web

The church members in attendance were also called to stand for applause as the pastor thanked them for making life pleasant for Carter in their church home. —Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 10 Jan. 2025

The host then played a clip of Harris announcing her own votes from California to more applause. —Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 7 Jan. 2025

Usually there is applause, and the certification is complete. —Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 6 Jan. 2025

The pianist bowed his head for applause and began another tune. —Kanak Kapur, The New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin applausus, from Latin, beating of wings, from applaudere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing applause

• round of applause
• self-applause

Kids Definition

applause

noun

ap·​plause ə-ˈplȯz 

: approval shown especially by clapping the hands