extolled - Master This Word
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extolled Word Meanings
- to praise highly
- to speak very well of someone
- to celebrate in words or songs
extolled Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
extolled Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪkˈstəʊl/
US
/ɪkˈstoʊl/
extolled Word Etymology
ex- = out + tolere = to lift. Originated from Latin, then passed through Old French into English. Imagine someone lifting a trophy high above their head to show off their achievement.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Extol means to praise highly or to celebrate in words or songs. It is a fairly formal verb used when authors or speakers want to lift someone or something up in a public, effusive way. You extol the virtues of a person, extol a leader’s achievements, or extol the beauty of a work of art. The usage emphasizes enthusiasm and moral approval, rather than casual compliment. In literature and rhetoric you may see phrases like extol the virtues of …, extol the wonders of nature, or extolment rarely occurs; extolment is unusual. Its Latin roots, ex- meaning out and tollere meaning to lift, help visualize lifting praise up for others to see.
Usage Reminders
- - Use extol in formal praise contexts rather than casual talk.
- - Pair extol with 'the virtues of' or 'achievements' to specify what is praised.
- - Remember its strong, public tone; avoid milder synonyms for everyday speech.
- - In writing, extend the praise to actions or character, not only superficial features.
- - Consider the culture and audience; extol sounds ceremonial in many contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Extol is only for religious or ceremonial contexts.
- Extol means to condemn or criticize.
- Extol is a casual synonym of praise and can be used in everyday chat.
- There is a common noun 'extolment' that is frequently used.
- Extol can be applied to anyone or anything with no nuance.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often see extol as a strong, public praise used in formal contexts like speeches, critiques, or religious rhetoric. Learners may overuse it in casual chats or confuse it with simple praise.
Learning Tips
- Learn the formal tone and choose contexts carefully.
- Pair with 'the virtues of' or 'achievements' for clarity.
- Practice with public-speaking or literary excerpts.
- Avoid using extol for casual compliments.
- Connect the idea to lifting praise—visualize praise being raised high.
- Compare with praise, laud, exalt to feel nuances.
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