applause
uh-PLAWZ
Applause (noun) means clapping and cheering used to show approval, usually after a performance or speech. Example: “The orchestra bowed as warm applause filled the hall.”
noun
1
Clapping and cheering used to show approval, usually after a performance or speech.
"The orchestra bowed as warm applause filled the hall."
"The comedian's final joke drew huge applause."
"She waited for the applause to die down before continuing."
How to use applause
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe clapping and cheering a crowd gives to show they liked something.
Common pairings
thunderous applause
round of applause
burst into applause
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Word forms
- Plural
- applauses
- Third person singular
- applauses
- Past tense
- applaused
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The orchestra bowed as warm _____ filled the hall.
Etymology
From Latin applausus, "a clapping," from applaudere, "to applaud."
Related words
Rhymes for applause
See all rhymes for applause →Frequently asked questions
What does “applause” mean?
The word “applause” means clapping and cheering used to show approval, usually after a performance or speech. In plain terms, the clapping and cheering a crowd gives to show they liked something.
How do you pronounce “applause”?
“Applause” is pronounced uh-PLAWZ (/əˈplɔːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “applause” in a sentence?
Here is “applause” used in a sentence: “The comedian's final joke drew huge applause.”
What is the opposite of “applause”?
The opposite of “applause” — its antonyms — are boo and deride.
What part of speech is “applause”?
“Applause” is a noun.
Where does the word “applause” come from?
The word “applause” comes from Latin. From Latin applausus, "a clapping," from applaudere, "to applaud.".
Is “applause” a common word?
“Applause” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between applause and clapping?
Clapping refers specifically to the physical act of striking the hands together, while applause is the broader term covering clapping and cheering together as a show of approval. Applause is typically used to describe the overall response of an audience, whereas clapping describes just one component of it.
When is applause considered appropriate?
Applause is generally expected after performances, speeches, or achievements, such as at the end of a concert, play, or presentation. In some settings, like classical music concerts, there are unwritten rules about clapping only between full pieces rather than between individual movements.
Is applause countable or uncountable?
Applause is an uncountable noun, so it is not used with "a" or given a plural form. You would say "the applause was loud" rather than "an applause" or "applauses."
