exclaim
ehk-SKLAYM
Exclaim (verb) means to cry out suddenly, usually because of a strong feeling like surprise, pain, or delight. Example: “Watch out!" she exclaimed as the car sped past.”
verb
1
To cry out suddenly, usually because of a strong feeling like surprise, pain, or delight.
""Watch out!" she exclaimed as the car sped past."
"He exclaimed in disbelief when he saw the final bill."
How to use exclaim
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo blurt something out loudly because of a sudden, strong emotion.
Common mistake
Usually used with a direct quotation, like "said" but with more emotional punch.
Common pairings
exclaim in surprise
exclaim loudly
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Word forms
- Plural
- exclaims
- Third person singular
- exclaims
- Past tense
- exclaimed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"Watch out!" she _____ as the car sped past.
Etymology
From Latin exclamare, "to call out" — ex ("out") plus clamare ("to shout").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for exclaim
See all rhymes for exclaim →Frequently asked questions
What does “exclaim” mean?
The word “exclaim” means to cry out suddenly, usually because of a strong feeling like surprise, pain, or delight. In plain terms, to blurt something out loudly because of a sudden, strong emotion.
How do you pronounce “exclaim”?
“Exclaim” is pronounced ehk-SKLAYM (/ɛkˈskleɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “exclaim” in a sentence?
Here is “exclaim” used in a sentence: “"Watch out!" she exclaimed as the car sped past.”
What part of speech is “exclaim”?
“Exclaim” is a verb.
Where does the word “exclaim” come from?
The word “exclaim” comes from Latin. From Latin exclamare, "to call out" — ex ("out") plus clamare ("to shout").
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