acclaim
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈkleɪm/
KK: /əˈkleɪm/
intransitive verb
Definition
To shout or express strong approval and praise for someone or something.
Example
The audience began to acclaim the performers after the stunning finale.
Tense Forms
Past: acclaimed
Past Participle: acclaimed
Conversation
Did you hear the crowd acclaim the band at the concert last night?
Yeah, it sounded like everyone was really into it.
I know! It's amazing how much energy they brought to the stage.
Absolutely, that kind of reaction is what every artist dreams of.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cheer
applaud
hail
Antonyms
criticize
condemn
disapprove
noun
Definition
Praise or approval that is given to someone or something, often in a public way.
Example
The author received widespread acclaim for her latest novel.
Conversation
Did you hear about the artist who just won an award for her latest album?
Yeah, I heard it received a lot of acclaim from critics!
It's amazing how quickly she gained such recognition in the music industry.
transitive verb
Definition
To publicly express strong approval or praise for someone or something.
Example
The critics acclaimed the new film as a masterpiece.
Tense Forms
Past: acclaimed
Past Participle: acclaimed
Conversation
Did you hear how the critics acclaim that new album?
Yeah, everyone’s talking about it!
I think it's great to see artists getting such positive feedback.
Root Explanation
Acclaim is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "clamare" (meaning to shout or call). The word describes the act of shouting praise or approval towards someone or something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'shouting' ('clamare') praise 'to' someone ('ad-') — that's what acclaim means.
Visually Confused Words
claim