applaudito

Applaudito is the past participle of the Italian verb applaudire, meaning to clap or to applaud. It is used as a verbal participle in compound tenses, most commonly in forms like ho applaudito or abbiamo applaudito. It is also used as an adjective meaning “applauded,” “well-received,” or “acclaimed,” and must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies: un successo applaudito, una performance applaudita.

Etymology: applaudire derives from Latin plaudere “to clap,” with the prefix ad- evolving into the Italian verb. Cognates include French applaudir and Spanish aplaudir, which reflect the same root.

Grammatical notes: When used with avere in the passato prossimo, the participle typically remains invariable, but as an adjective it agrees with the noun it modifies. In passive constructions with essere, it agrees in gender and number: è stato applaudito dal pubblico (he was applauded by the audience). The word is common in journalism, reviews, and reports to convey the level of public reception.

Usage context: Applaudito emphasizes the act of clapping or the resulting appreciation rather than broad, formal acclaim. It often appears in phrases describing audience reaction or the reception of a performance, event, or work.

Related terms: applaudire, applauso, plaudere, acclamato, elogiare.