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.
Clark drank from the cup while receiving an ovation from the crowd. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 More than a century later, Ben Ali received an overdue ovation, his bronze likeness unveiled along the boulevard in May 2008 — the month of the Kentucky Derby. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 22 Oct. 2026 After the drama was embraced at Cannes Film Festival with a 16-minute standing ovation, Netflix acquired the movie for around $5 million. — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 18 Oct. 2026 Pitt State and Boschee Ball Former KU guard Jeff Boschee, the fifth-year head coach at Pitt State, received a loud ovation during player and coach introductions. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 17 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 27 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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