ACCLAMATORY

Definition of ACCLAMATORY

ACCLAMATORY Adjective

Acclamatory is an adjective that describes expressions of strong approval, praise, or enthusiastic acknowledgment, often conveyed through vocal or public demonstration. It is used to characterize statements, gestures, or reactions that are marked by admiration, applause, or collective endorsement.

Expressing Enthusiastic Approval: Acclamatory refers to statements or actions that openly convey praise or admiration. For example, “The audience gave an acclamatory response to the speaker’s powerful message,” where acclamatory describes the enthusiastic and approving reaction of the audience. Such expressions are often associated with applause, cheering, or other signs of strong approval.

In Public and Political Contexts: In political or official settings, acclamatory is often used to describe unanimous or highly supportive endorsements. For example, “The leader was elected by an acclamatory vote,” indicating overwhelming approval without opposition. This usage reflects decisions or declarations made with widespread or unanimous support, emphasizing the absence of dissent.

In Literature and Rhetoric – Praising Language: Acclamatory can also describe written or spoken language that conveys admiration and praise. For example, “The critic’s acclamatory review highlighted the film’s brilliance,” where acclamatory suggests that the review was filled with enthusiastic praise. This term is commonly used in literary and rhetorical contexts to indicate laudatory or approving tones.

In Ceremonial and Religious Settings: In religious or ceremonial contexts, acclamatory expressions often take the form of chants, hymns, or public declarations of faith and reverence. For example, “The congregation’s acclamatory chants filled the church with an atmosphere of devotion,” where acclamatory signifies collective expressions of praise and reverence.

In Conclusion: Acclamatory describes enthusiastic, vocal, or public expressions of approval, praise, or admiration. It is frequently used in political, social, rhetorical, and ceremonial contexts to characterize actions, words, or decisions that are met with widespread support and appreciation. Whether in a speech, a vote, a performance, or a religious gathering, acclamatory expressions signify strong and affirmative recognition.

Examples of ACCLAMATORY in a sentence

• The acclamatory cheers from the crowd echoed through the stadium as the team secured their victory.
• After the artist’s remarkable performance, the room was filled with acclamatory applause that lasted for several minutes.
• She gave an acclamatory shout, filled with joy and excitement, after hearing about her promotion.
• The award ceremony concluded with an acclamatory roar, as the recipient made their way to the stage.
• His acclamatory comments about the new policy were met with both enthusiasm and agreement from the group.
• The speech was designed to be acclamatory, aimed at recognizing the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.
• As the final chapter of the book unfolded, the acclamatory response from readers showed how deeply the story had resonated with them.
• At the end of the concert, the acclamatory reaction from the audience proved how much they appreciated the band’s incredible performance.

Origin of ACCLAMATORY

The term acclamatory has an etymology focused on expressions of approval or praise, often used in formal or public contexts.

• Etymological Roots: Acclamatory comes from the word acclamation, which originates from the Latin “acclamatio,” meaning “a shout of approval or praise.” It is derived from the verb “acclamare,” meaning “to shout at” or “to cry out in approval,” from the prefix “ad-” (meaning “toward”) and “clamare” (meaning “to shout”). The suffix “-ory” is added to the noun acclamation to form the adjective acclamatory, indicating something that involves or expresses praise or approval.
• Historical Development: The term acclamatory began to be used in English in the 17th century, with the meaning of something that expresses or relates to acclamation or praise. Initially, it was used in a formal sense, often in relation to public or ceremonial displays of approval, such as those that might occur in political or social gatherings. The use of acclamatory expanded to describe expressions or gestures of approval in a variety of contexts, from public celebrations to more personal or informal forms of praise.
• Cultural and Linguistic Evolution: Over time, acclamatory was employed to describe any action, word, or gesture that conveys approval or enthusiasm, particularly in an enthusiastic or public manner. In the 18th and 19th centuries, acclamatory became more associated with formal and public events, such as political elections, theater performances, and other public speeches or displays, where people might shout or express approval through applause or cheers. The term retained its association with positive, enthusiastic expressions of praise and approval, whether in a formal setting or a more informal social context.
• Current Usage: Today, acclamatory is used to describe actions, words, or expressions that convey enthusiastic approval or praise. It is commonly used in contexts such as speeches, performances, and political events, where public expressions of support or enthusiasm are common. For example, an acclamatory response could be loud cheers or applause, typically signifying strong approval or admiration. The term is also used more generally to describe anything marked by or involving expressions of approval or commendation.

The term acclamatory has evolved from its roots in public displays of praise to become a more general descriptor for any expression of enthusiastic approval or praise, particularly in both formal and informal contexts.