applaud
Applaud (verb) means to clap your hands to show approval or enjoyment. Example: “The crowd applauded as the band walked on stage.”
How to use applaud
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo clap for someone, or more broadly, to openly praise them.
Word forms
applauded past tense, applauds plural, applauds singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crowd _____ as the band walked on stage.
Etymology
From Latin applaudere, "to clap the hands together," from ad- ("to") + plaudere ("to clap, strike").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for applaud
See all rhymes for applaud →Frequently asked questions
What does “applaud” mean?
The word “applaud” means to clap your hands to show approval or enjoyment. In plain terms, to clap for someone, or more broadly, to openly praise them.
How do you pronounce “applaud”?
“Applaud” is pronounced uh-PLAWD (/əˈplɔd/ in IPA).
How do you use “applaud” in a sentence?
Here is “applaud” used in a sentence: “The crowd applauded as the band walked on stage.”
What part of speech is “applaud”?
“Applaud” is a verb.
Where does the word “applaud” come from?
The word “applaud” comes from Latin. From Latin applaudere, "to clap the hands together," from ad- ("to") + plaudere ("to clap, strike").
Is “applaud” a common word?
“Applaud” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “applaud” have?
“Applaud” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to clap your hands to show approval or enjoyment.