ovation

noun

ova·​tion ō-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce ovation (audio)
Synonyms of ovationnext
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

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 Intuit Dome crowd included former President Barack Obama, who received a standing ovation pregame. Greg Beacham, Twin Cities, 16 Feb. 2026 The crowd included former President Barack Obama, who received a standing ovation pregame – and even motivated Edwards’ performance. Janis Carr, Oc Register, 16 Feb. 2026 Turpa received a standing ovation at Friday’s game. Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026 The video captured her standing on stage as the audience waved and gave her a standing ovation. Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 16 Feb. 2026 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 2

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 18 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

ovation

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

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