1. clapped hands together to show approval or appreciation
Usage: past tense of applaud
2. praised or expressed approval of something
Usage: past tense of applaud; figurative use

Examples

• The audience applauded loudly after the performance.
• Everyone applauded when she finished her speech.
• The critics applauded the director’s bold new vision.
• His colleagues applauded his decision to donate to charity.
• The crowd applauded enthusiastically at the end of the concert.
• Teachers applauded the student’s improvement in math.
• The committee applauded her innovative approach to the problem.