exclaim

verb

ex·​claim ik-ˈsklām How to pronounce exclaim (audio)
exclaimed; exclaiming; exclaims

intransitive verb

1
: to cry out or speak in strong or sudden emotion
exclaimed in delight
2
: to speak loudly or vehemently
exclaimed against immorality

transitive verb

: to utter sharply, passionately, or vehemently : proclaim
exclaimer noun

Examples of exclaim in a Sentence

“Here he comes!” someone exclaimed. She exclaimed in delight over the Christmas tree. The children exclaimed with wonder when they saw the elephant.
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.
Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson exclaimed when asked about the catch and celebration. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 2 Oct. 2025 Kimmel exclaimed as the camera returned to him. Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025 Bertinelli exclaims, pointing an accusing finger at Malick. Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Sep. 2025 García exclaimed in her acceptance speech. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exclaim

Word History

Etymology

Middle French exclamer, from Latin exclamare, from ex- + clamare to cry out — more at claim

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exclaim was in 1566

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exclaim.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exclaim. Accessed 7 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

exclaim

verb
ex·​claim iks-ˈklām How to pronounce exclaim (audio)
: to cry out or speak suddenly or with strong feeling
exclaimed in delight

More from Merriam-Webster on exclaim

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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