applaud
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /əˈplɔːd/
KK: /əˈplɔd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To show approval or praise for someone or something, usually by clapping hands.
Example
The audience began to applaud after the performance ended.
Tense Forms
Past: applauded
Past Participle: applauded
Conversation
Did you hear the crowd applaud after the performance?
Yeah, it was amazing! They really loved it.
I thought the music was great, and the dancers were so talented.
Absolutely! It’s always nice to see people applaud for hard work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cheer
clap
acclaim
Antonyms
criticize
condemn
disapprove
transitive verb
Definition
To show approval or praise for someone or something, often by clapping hands.
Example
The audience began to applaud after the performance ended.
Tense Forms
Past: applauded
Past Participle: applauded
Conversation
I really think we should applaud Sarah for her amazing presentation yesterday.
Absolutely! She put so much effort into it.
Yeah, I loved how she handled the questions too.
Root Explanation
Applaud is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "plaudere" (meaning to clap or strike). The word describes the act of clapping in approval or praise, essentially meaning to strike one's hands together in appreciation.
Memory Tip
Think of 'clapping' ('plaudere') to show approval or praise, which is what applauding means.
Visually Confused Words
reapplaud
plaud
kappland