ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
1
: 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
2
: an expression or demonstration of popular acclaim especially by enthusiastic applause
received a standing ovation

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 movie debuted at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival back in January, where Lopez was visibly emotional as audiences stood for a lengthy ovation. Dave Quinn, People.com, 5 June 2025 Though it’s received mixed reviews thus far, the modern adaptation scored a six-minute standing ovation at last month’s premiere, where Washington and Lee shared laughs with rapper A$AP Rocky and actor Jeffrey Wright, who both co-star in the film. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 2 June 2025 That line earned Vance his most thunderous ovation of the morning. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 2 June 2025 Appearing to bask in the vindication, Panahi clasped his hands behind his head and leaned back seated in sunglasses, savoring the moment while those around him stood in an ovation. Joshua Rothkopf, Los Angeles Times, 24 May 2025 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 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ovation was in 1533

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ovation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ovation. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

ovation

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

More from Merriam-Webster on ovation

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