extol

Extol is a transitive verb meaning to praise something or someone enthusiastically and publicly. It conveys high praise and admiration, often in formal or rhetorical contexts. The object is usually a virtue, achievement, idea, or person; one might extol the virtues of democracy, extol a writer’s genius, or extol a leader’s achievements.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin extollere, meaning “to lift up,” from ex- “out” + tollere “to raise.” The sense of praising highly is metaphorical, likening praise to lifting up someone or something.

Usage: Extol is typically used in more formal or literary styles. It is transitive and followed by a direct object. It tends to indicate ardent or exuberant praise rather than neutral commendation. Synonyms include laud, praise, exalt, and celebrate; however, extol often implies public endorsement or rhetorical flourish.

Examples: Critics extol the novel for its intricate plotting; activists extol the virtues of clean energy; the coach extolled the team’s resilience after the match.