Applauding

Applauding is the act of expressing approval, appreciation, or praise by producing a sharp sound with the hands, typically by striking the palms together in rhythm. It most often occurs after a performance, speech, or achievement, but can also be used to acknowledge or encourage in other settings. In many cultures, applause may include accompanying vocal cheers, whistling, stamping, or standing to show stronger approval.

The word applaud derives from Old French applauder, from Latin applaudere, meaning to strike upon or beat on. Historical evidence of formal applause appears in classical theatre and public events, and it has remained a common mechanism for signaling communal approval in many societies into the present day.

Socially, applause functions as feedback for performers, a ritual of recognition, and a means of coordinating group response. The tempo and volume of clapping can convey the audience’s intensity, and a standing ovation—where many or all audience members rise to their feet—signifies especially strong praise and often precedes an encore or a final bow. Etiquette surrounding applause varies by context; audiences are typically expected to clap at the end of a performance, not during, though genres such as concerts or sports can invite interruptions for rhythmic clapping or chants.

Cultural norms influence the preferred modes of applause. In some traditions, vocal acclaim or whistling is common; in others, quiet, brief applause is favored. In contemporary settings, clapping remains the most universal form, though digital or pre-recorded events sometimes use visual or textual cues to acknowledge contributors.