ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən 

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

• applause

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

The 26-year-old from Canada rounded second and slid headfirst into third to beat the relay throw, getting a huge ovation. — ABC News, 10 July 2026

The first responders received two separate standing ovations as Higgins detailed their efforts and the significance of their work in giving people hope. — Ella Moore july 9, Miami Herald, 9 July 2026

Moments later, Borja Iglesias comes on, prompting another ovation. — Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 7 July 2026

An unimaginable weight rested on his shoulders when Alfonzo stepped into the batter’s box to a standing ovation. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026

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

Phrases Containing ovation

• standing ovation

Rhymes for ovation

• ablation
• aeration
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation

Kids Definition

ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən 

: a public expression of praise : enthusiastic applause