First Known Use: 1566
Dictionary
exclaim
verb ex·claim \iks-ˈklām\
: to say (something) in an enthusiastic or forceful way
: to cry out or speak suddenly or with strong feeling
Full Definition of EXCLAIM
intransitive verb
1
: to cry out or speak in strong or sudden emotion <exclaimed in delight>
2
: to speak loudly or vehemently <exclaimed against immorality>
transitive verb
: to utter sharply, passionately, or vehemently : proclaim
— ex·claim·er noun
See exclaim defined for English-language learners
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Origin of EXCLAIM
Middle French exclamer, from Latin exclamare, from ex- + clamare to cry out — more at claim
Related to EXCLAIM
- Synonyms
- blat, blurt (out), bolt, cry (out), ejaculate
EXCLAIMER Defined for Kids
exclaim
verb ex·claim \ik-ˈsklām\
ex·claimedex·claim·ing
Definition of EXCLAIM for Kids
: to speak or cry out suddenly or with strong feeling
Word Root of EXCLAIM
The Latin word clamāre, meaning “to shout” or “to cry out,” gives us the root clam and its form claim. Words from the Latin clamāre have something to do with shouting. To exclaim is to cry out in a sudden or emotional way. To proclaim is to announce or shout something publicly. Clamor is noisy shouting.
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