Applause is a term that we all have heard of and is commonly used in our day-to-day life. It is a way of expressing appreciation and admiration for someone or something. The sound of applause is a universal symbol of approval and is used in a variety of settings, from concerts and performances to political rallies and speeches. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of applause in detail.
Definitions
Applause is defined as the act of clapping one’s hands together to show appreciation or approval. It is a gesture of recognition and admiration for someone’s performance or achievement. Applause can also refer to the sound made by a group of people clapping together.
Origin
The origin of applause can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was used in theaters as a way of showing approval for a performance. The word “applause” comes from the Latin word “plaudere,” which means to clap or strike. Over time, applause became a common practice in various cultures and is now an integral part of many social gatherings.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, applause is “the clapping of hands to show approval or appreciation.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “an expression of approval marked especially by clapping of the hands.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “the sound of people clapping their hands repeatedly to show enjoyment or approval of something such as a performance or speech.”
Associations
Applause is associated with positive emotions such as admiration, appreciation, and approval. It is often used to encourage and motivate people to continue their efforts and to show support for their achievements. Applause is also associated with social events such as concerts, plays, and sports events.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of applause include acclaim, ovation, cheering, and bravo. These words are often used interchangeably with applause to express the same sentiment of approval and admiration.
Antonyms
Antonyms of applause include booing, hissing, and jeering. These words are used to express disapproval and are the opposite of applause.
The same root words
The word “applause” is derived from the Latin word “plaudere,” which means to clap or strike. Other words that share the same root include “applaud,” “applauder,” and “applaudable.”
Example Sentences
- The audience gave a standing ovation, and the sound of applause filled the theater.
- The politician’s speech was met with thunderous applause from the crowd.
- The conductor bowed to the audience after the final note, and the applause continued for several minutes.
- The actor’s performance was so impressive that he received a round of applause before the play even ended.
- The team’s victory was celebrated with cheers and applause from the fans.