exclaim

verb

ex·​claim ik-ˈsklām How to pronounce exclaim (audio)
exclaimed; exclaiming; exclaims
Synonyms 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 corruption

transitive verb

: to utter sharply, passionately, or vehemently : proclaim
exclaimer noun

Synonyms of exclaim

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Examples of exclaim in a Sentence

“Here he comes!” someone exclaimed. She exclaimed in delight over the Christmas tree. The children exclaimed with wonder when they saw the elephant.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Drinkwitz exclaimed, upon hearing the news of Webb's availability from a reporter's tweet. — ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026 Jowsey was having a moment with Juliana when Sammy exclaimed her painting was done. — Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Kornacki then exclaimed, trying to collect his soaked papers. — Janey Wetzel, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026 Kiana's older sister Lani exclaimed, while lovingly tickling the baby. — Olivia Young, CBS News, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for exclaim

Word History

Etymology

Middle French exclamer, from Latin exclamare, from ex- + clamare to cry out — more at claim

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exclaim was in 1566

Rhymes for exclaim

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Browse Nearby Words

excl
exclaim
exclaimer
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Cite this Entry

“Exclaim.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exclaim. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

exclaim

verb
ex·​claim iks-ˈklām How to pronounce exclaim (audio)
: to cry out or speak suddenly or with strong feeling
exclaimed in delight
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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