applaud
Meaning
to show approval or enjoyment of a performance, speech, etc. by clapping the hands repeatedly
to express strong approval of an idea, plan, etc.
Structure
Usage
the audience rose to applaud the orchestra's magnificent performance.
we should applaud the government's efforts to improve public healthcare.
critics everywhere applauded the director's bold new film.
Etymology
The word 'applaud' entered English in the late 15th century from Latin 'applaudere', which is a compound of the prefix 'ad-' (to, towards) and the verb 'plaudere' (to clap, strike). The literal sense of striking one's hands together evolved into the figurative meaning of striking with approval. This core action of clapping as a public expression of commendation has remained remarkably consistent from its Roman origins to its modern usage in English, where it signifies both the physical act and the metaphorical endorsement of an idea.
Analysis
ap- (latin, variant of 'ad-', meaning 'to, towards'); plaud (latin, from 'plaudere', meaning 'to clap, strike')