acclaim

[ uh-kleym ]

verb (used with object)

1. to welcome or salute with shouts or sounds of joy and approval; applaud:

   to acclaim the conquering heroes.

2. to announce or proclaim with enthusiastic approval:

   to acclaim the new king.

verb (used without object)

1. to make acclamation; applaud.

noun

1. acclamation ( defs 1, 2 ).

acclaim

/ əˈkleɪm /

verb

1. tr to acknowledge publicly the excellence of (a person, act, etc)
2. to salute with cheering, clapping, etc; applaud
3. tr to acknowledge publicly that (a person) has (some position, quality, etc)

   they acclaimed him king

noun

1. an enthusiastic approval, expression of enthusiasm, etc

Derived Forms

• acˈclaimer, noun

Other Words From

• ac·claimer noun
• reac·claim verb (used with object)
• unac·claimed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acclaim¹

From the Latin word acclāmāre, dating back to 1630–40. See ac-, claim

Word History and Origins

Origin of acclaim¹

C17: from Latin acclāmāre to shout at, shout applause, from ad- to + clamāre to shout

Example Sentences

Certainly, there could have been a more straightforward adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s acclaimed novel about the friendship between two Black boys at a brutal Florida reform school in the early 1960s.

From Los Angeles Times

Kenny was also an acclaimed singer, poet, and solo stand-up performer.

From BBC

One can certainly discuss this limited series divorced from other critically acclaimed shows, but it’s more interesting to view it as part of a continuum that speaks to our present, whether thematically or parabolically.

From Salon

His breakout hit, Stargazing, has achieved worldwide acclaim, been platinum-certified and even featured on former US President Barack Obama's summer playlist.

From BBC

If so, then the critically acclaimed “The Wild Robot” and the charming “Inside Out 2,” Pixar’s highest-grossing film of all time, would like your attention.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acclamation
• applause
• commendation
• kudos
• praise
• rave
• recognition