Definition of proclaimnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb proclaim differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of proclaim are announce, declare, and promulgate. While all these words mean "to make known publicly," proclaim implies declaring clearly, forcefully, and authoritatively.

the president proclaimed a national day of mourning

When could announce be used to replace proclaim?

The words announce and proclaim are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, announce implies the declaration of something for the first time.

announced their engagement at a party

When might declare be a better fit than proclaim?

Although the words declare and proclaim have much in common, declare implies explicitness and usually formality in making known.

the referee declared the contest a draw

In what contexts can promulgate take the place of proclaim?

The words promulgate and proclaim can be used in similar contexts, but promulgate implies the proclaiming of a dogma, doctrine, or law.

promulgated an edict of religious toleration

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of proclaim Her son Spencer, 5, could be heard proclaiming his hunger in the back of the video and is seen grabbing a few slices of Parmesan cheese prepped for the salad. Chiara Kim, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026 Yes, the Jaguars were among the majority of NFL teams that proudly proclaimed their support for the LGBTQ movement on June 1. Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026 The police department received state accreditation, which the mayor and police director have proclaimed demonstrates that officers have implemented modern policing practices. Brandon Goldner, CBS News, 30 July 2026 Last year, Thumbtack proclaimed 2025 as The Year of the Backyard – for the second year in a row. Terri Williams, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for proclaim
Recent Examples of Synonyms for proclaim
Verb
  • The casting news was announced during the Disney Entertainment Showcase presentation at Disney’s D23 fan event in Anaheim, California on Friday.
    Matt Minton, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Despite being away, Biya has continued to make key decisions from abroad, including a major military reshuffle announced earlier this month.
    Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The outbreak has gained momentum since it was declared on May 15, as weak health infrastructure, community resistance and instability hinder the effort to identify and respond to cases.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2026
  • The province's governor declared a 14-day state of emergency on Sunday.
    CBS News, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Judge Carli Kierny, presiding over the case, has ruled the jury will be able to hear about the book Davis published and his previous police interviews.
    Sasha Pezenik, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026
  • An investigative report is expected to be published publicly later this month.
    Ashley Grams, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Proclaim.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proclaim. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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