clamor

Clamor, also spelled clamour in British English, is a word that can function as a noun or a verb to describe loud sound or vocal insistence. As a noun, it refers to a loud, continuous noise or uproar, such as the clamor of a crowd or a public outcry for reform. It can also denote a vehement demand or protest by many people: "the clamor for change grew louder." As a verb, to clamour means to shout loudly or to insistently press for something: "the crowd clamoured for justice" or "critics clamoured for a response." The sense often blends physical noise with social or political pressure.

Etymology: Clamour derives from Latin clamorem, from clamare, to cry out. It entered English in the Middle Ages, with the British spelling retaining the 'u' and the American variant typically written as clamor.

Usage notes: The word can carry a negative connotation, implying disruption, distraction, or coercive pressure, but it can also be a neutral description of widespread public sentiment. It is common in journalism and political commentary to describe public reaction as a clamor or as a growing clamor.

Related terms: Din, racket, uproar, outcry, protest. See also vociferation and noise; synonyms vary by intensity and form (sound versus expression of opinion). The phrase "to drown out the clamor" describes overpowering noisy criticism with other sounds or messages.