applause

/əˈplɔːz/
nounIntermediate
formalinformal

The act of clapping hands together to express approval or appreciation, typically by an audience.

The comedian received thunderous applause for his hilarious jokes.

The audience clapped loudly and enthusiastically for the comedian's jokes.

The politician's speech ended with a round of polite applause.

The audience clapped politely after the politician finished speaking.

💡

Applause is often used in performances, speeches, and public events to show approval.

Collocations

loud applauseclapping that is very loud and enthusiasticpolite applauseclapping that is quiet and respectfulstanding ovationa form of applause where the audience stands up to show extreme approval

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

give someone a round of applausephrase
to clap for someone to show approval
break into applausephrase
to suddenly start clapping

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Applause

In formal settings, applause is often polite and controlled, while in informal settings, it can be loud and enthusiastic.

Gold Rule

Appropriate Applause

Applause should be used to show genuine appreciation, not just as a social obligation.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'applaudir', from Latin 'applaudere', meaning 'to clap the hands together'.

📝Usage Notes

Applause is a common way to show appreciation in public settings. It can vary in intensity and formality.

Word Breakdown

ap-
to
prefix
+
-plaud-
clap
root
+
-e
verb suffix
suffix
English Dictionary