exclaim
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪkˈskleɪm/
KK: /ɪkˈskleɪm/
intransitive verb
Definition
To shout or speak suddenly and with strong emotion, often because of surprise or excitement.
Example
She exclaimed in joy when she saw her friend after a long time.
Tense Forms
Past: exclaimed
Past Participle: exclaimed
Conversation
Did you hear what happened at the concert last night?
No, what happened?
The crowd exclaimed when the band played their hit song!
That sounds amazing! I wish I could have been there.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shout
cry
yell
Antonyms
whisper
murmur
speak
transitive verb
Definition
To say something suddenly and with strong emotion, often because of surprise or excitement.
Example
She exclaimed in joy when she saw her birthday cake.
Tense Forms
Past: exclaimed
Past Participle: exclaimed
Conversation
Did you hear what she exclaimed at the party last night?
Yeah, everyone was surprised by her reaction!
I couldn't believe it; I thought she'd just smile.
Root Explanation
Exclaim → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "clamare" (meaning to shout or cry). The word "exclaim" means to shout out or speak suddenly and with strong emotion.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'shouting out' ('ex-') something important — that's why exclaim means to speak out loudly.
Visually Confused Words
reclaim
declaim
claim
preclaim