exclamation

noun

ex·​cla·​ma·​tion ˌek-sklə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: a sharp or sudden utterance

2

: vehement expression of protest or complaint

Synonyms

• cry
• shout
• interjection
• scream
• shriek
• ejaculation

Examples of exclamation in a Sentence

Her unexpected announcement caused a few exclamations of surprise.

the good news was greeted with a chorus of joyous exclamations

Recent Examples on the Web

After a relatively quiet period leading up to the trade deadline, that kind of offseason exclamation mark could be up next for the Cubs. —Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Aug. 2025

After a handful of singles, a few music videos, and one explosive performance at the Brit Awards, the singer’s debut solo album, That’s Showbiz Baby! (exclamation hers), will be out on September 12. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 14 May 2025

Alex Bregman delivered the exclamation mark with his go-ahead two-run home run, which came moments after Roman Anthony hit an opposite field RBI triple off the Green Monster. —Mac Cerullo, Hartford Courant, 27 July 2025

His answers often incite him to pound his fist on the meeting table, interspersed with loud exclamations. —Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 13 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing exclamation

• exclamation point
• put an exclamation point on

Rhymes for exclamation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

exclamation

noun

ex·​cla·​ma·​tion ˌeks-klə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: a sharp or sudden cry of strong feeling

2

: a strong expression of anger or complaint