ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
Synonyms of ovationnext
1
: an expression or demonstration of popular acclaim especially by enthusiastic applause
received a standing ovation
2
: a ceremony attending the entering of Rome by a general who had won a victory of less importance than that for which a triumph was granted

Synonyms of ovation

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Examples of ovation in a Sentence

He was welcomed by a warm ovation when he came out onto the stage. received a standing ovation for the masterly performance
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.
Morris, in a while gauzy dress and bare feet, walks out to a standing ovation. — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 3 Sep. 2026 But if the awards season goes as the streamer plans, a journey that began in Cannes with a rapturous standing ovation, could end with Los Javis clasping some golden statues. — Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 3 Sep. 2026 During the screening, O’Connell left the overcoat off and opted to wear just the long scarf, which could be seen over his shoulders amid the film’s four-minute standing ovation. — Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2026 Despite the ovation and the videos, the homers helped put his new team back on a winning track. — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ovation

Word History

Etymology

Latin ovation-, ovatio, from ovare to exult; akin to Greek euoi, interjection used in Bacchic revels

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of ovation was in 1533

Phrases Containing ovation

Rhymes for ovation

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Browse Nearby Words

ovate
ovation
ovational
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

ovation

noun
ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
: a public expression of praise : enthusiastic applause
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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