applause

Applause is the sound produced by quickly striking the palms of the hands together, typically to express approval, appreciation, or enjoyment during or after a performance or speech. It results from rapid hand contacts that compress and release air, creating a percussive sound. The tempo, volume, and duration of applause can convey varying levels of enthusiasm, from a brief clap to a sustained standing ovation.

Etymology and usage: Applause derives from Latin applaudere, meaning “to clap at,” via Old French applaud. The noun sense appears in English in the medieval period, with applaud as the related verb. In many cultures, applause is accompanied by phrases such as “bravo” or “encore.”

Forms and customs: Applause can be rhythmic or unison, and may be coordinated with music or a conductor. A standing ovation is a prolonged form in which the audience rises to their feet. An encore is often signaled by continued applause after a performance. Historically, some venues used claque groups—paid individuals whose clapping aimed to influence public reception.

Cultural and social aspects: Applause serves social functions such as rewarding performers, signaling approval, and strengthening group cohesion. Practices vary widely; some cultures add shouts or whistles, while others emphasize quieter moments or silence during certain portions of a program. Etiquette generally governs when to begin and stop clapping and how to respond to a performance’s emotional arc.