ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
Synonyms of ovationnext
1
: an expression or demonstration of popular acclaim especially by enthusiastic applause
received a standing ovation
2
: a ceremony attending the entering of Rome by a general who had won a victory of less importance than that for which a triumph was granted

Synonyms of ovation

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Examples of ovation in a Sentence

He was welcomed by a warm ovation when he came out onto the stage. received a standing ovation for the masterly performance
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Russian star's two kids handled that announcement, and the crowd gave a standing ovation. — CBS News, 8 Oct. 2026 Two weeks later, at a preview, the powerful moment brings the crowd to its feet in a rare mid-show standing ovation. — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 8 Oct. 2026 That no-tax-hike line won Preckwinkle an election year ovation from commissioners. — A.d. Quig, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 Following the film screening, which earned a raucous applause from attendees (and a standing ovation for its lead actor), Scott encouraged the audience to dance their way out to a song by the late Ethel Merman. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ovation

Word History

Etymology

Latin ovation-, ovatio, from ovare to exult; akin to Greek euoi, interjection used in Bacchic revels

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of ovation was in 1533

Phrases Containing ovation

Rhymes for ovation

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Browse Nearby Words

ovate
ovation
ovational
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Cite this Entry

“Ovation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ovation. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ovation

noun
ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
: a public expression of praise : enthusiastic applause
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