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noun Uncommon

ovation

oh-VAY-shuhn

Ovation (noun) means Loud, sustained applause given in appreciation of something. Example: “The singer received a standing ovation at the end of the show.”

noun
1
Loud, sustained applause given in appreciation of something.
"The singer received a standing ovation at the end of the show."
"His speech earned a thunderous ovation from the crowd."
2
A public show of praise or recognition for an achievement.
"The retiring coach was given an ovation for decades of service."

How to use ovation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEnthusiastic clapping and cheering to honor someone.

Common mistake

Usually paired with "standing" for the strongest form of praise (a standing ovation).

Common pairings
standing ovation give someone an ovation rapturous ovation

Word forms

ovationed past tense, ovations plural, ovations singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The singer received a standing _____ at the end of the show.

Etymology

From Latin ovatio, a lesser form of victory celebration than a full triumph, from the verb ovare, "to rejoice."

Origin: Latin

standing ovation

Rhymes for ovation

See all rhymes for ovation →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ovation” mean?

The word “ovation” means loud, sustained applause given in appreciation of something. In plain terms, enthusiastic clapping and cheering to honor someone.

How do you pronounce “ovation”?

“Ovation” is pronounced oh-VAY-shuhn (/oʊˈveɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “ovation” in a sentence?

Here is “ovation” used in a sentence: “The singer received a standing ovation at the end of the show.”

What part of speech is “ovation”?

“Ovation” is a noun.

Where does the word “ovation” come from?

The word “ovation” comes from Latin. From Latin ovatio, a lesser form of victory celebration than a full triumph, from the verb ovare, "to rejoice.".

Is “ovation” a common word?

“Ovation” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “ovation” have?

“Ovation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: loud, sustained applause given in appreciation of something.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial