applaud
Americanverb (used without object)
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to clap the hands as an expression of approval, appreciation, acclamation, etc..
They applauded wildly at the end of the opera.
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to express approval; give praise; acclaim.
verb (used with object)
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to clap the hands so as to show approval, appreciation, etc., of.
to applaud an actor; to applaud a speech.
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to praise or express approval of.
to applaud a person's ambition.
verb
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to indicate approval of (a person, performance, etc) by clapping the hands
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(usually tr) to offer or express approval or praise of (an action, person, or thing)
I applaud your decision
Other Word Forms
- applauder noun
- applauding adjective
- applaudingly adverb
- overapplaud verb
- reapplaud verb
- self-applauding adjective
- unapplauded adjective
- unapplauding adjective
- well-applauded adjective
Etymology
Origin of applaud
1530–40; < Latin applaudere, equivalent to ap- ap- 1 + plaudere to clap the hands
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A Reform UK Wales spokesperson said: "Our carers are playing a key role in keeping our entire healthcare system working. We applaud them and will continue to engage with them."
From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026
There’s a decent chance analysts will applaud, just like they did back in November when management beat expectations and raised guidance.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 17, 2026
“I applaud the tireless work of community activists who partnered with local and state agencies to finish the job and improve the health and safety of this community. This is a win for all Californians.”
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026
I applaud the fact that you are pulling in $250,000 with $3 million in investable assets to fall back on, and $60,000 a year in Social Security benefits.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 13, 2026
When it was over, Kendra wanted to applaud, but the moment felt too sacred.
From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
