rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryacclaimPublic praise
noun / verb

acclaim

uh-KLAYM/ʌklˈeɪm/

Enthusiastic public praise or approval.

The audience acclaims the dancer with cheers and a standing ovation.

A performer takes a modest bow on a low stage while a small standing audience beams and applauds enthusiastically, making public approval visible.
Etymology
acLatinto, toward
+claimLatinto cry out

The roots describe crying out toward someone. In the approving sense, that cry becomes applause or a shout of joy, giving the noun its meaning of enthusiastic public praise.

In context

The Real Legacy7:52
His performances continued to receive critical acclaim, and he eventually won two Academy Awards for best actor.
10 Hollywood Stars With the WORST TEMPERS of All Time

More examples

  • Her first novel won international acclaim.
  • Critics acclaimed the performance as her finest work.
  • The discovery brought widespread acclaim to the research team.

Forms

acclaim · acclaims · acclaimed · acclaiming

Similar words

praise
Can be private or restrained rather than enthusiastic and public.
applause
Usually approval expressed by clapping rather than broader recognition.