laud - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
laud Word Meanings
- to praise someone or something highly
- to celebrate or honor through words
- to express approval or admiration
laud Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
laud Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/lɔːd/
US
/lɔd/
laud Word Etymology
Root decomposition: laud (root). Historical origin: Latin 'laudare' → Old French 'lauder' → English. Memory image: Picture a grand award ceremony where people stand and applaud, showing their admiration and appreciation for the winners.
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
Laud is a verb meaning to praise someone or something highly; to celebrate or honor through words; to express approval or admiration. It can be formal or ceremonial, and often appears in speeches, official commendations, or scholarly writing. In everyday speech, you might laud a colleague's achievement or laud a team's effort, though more common alternatives include praise, commend, or congratulate. The noun form is laud as in laudation or laudable, but in modern usage the adjective laudable is common and laudatory describes language that expresses praise. Using laud implies explicit, public approval rather than casual praise.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use laud for strong, formal praise rather than casual compliments.
- 2) Often followed by 'for' or a specific achievement.
- 3) Note that the noun form is rare; prefer praise or laudation.
- 4) Common in official speeches, ceremonies, or academic writing.
- 5) Do not confuse with applaud, which is physical voting or clapping.
Common Misconceptions
- Laud is not a casual synonym for praise; it is more formal and public.
- The noun form exists but is rarely used; use praise or laudation instead.
- Laud is not the same as applaud, which involves physical clapping.
- It often takes a structure like laud for or laud (someone) for a reason.
- Laud is common in formal writing and official speeches, less so in everyday conversation.
Thinking Differences
Laud tends to signal stronger, more public praise than everyday compliments; English learners often confuse it with praise or applaud, but its formality and sense of official recognition set it apart.
Learning Tips
- memorize that laud is formal and public
- note its typical collocations: laud for, laud someone’s achievements
- contrast with applaud and praise
- practice writing a sentence with laud in a ceremonial context
- learn related forms: laudable, laudatory
- read formal speeches to hear natural usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'laud'?
A.To criticize harshly
B.To ignore completely
C.To praise highly
D.To question intensely
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'laud' in a sentence.
A.The teacher chose to laud his student’s efforts in the science fair.
B.He was lauding his car by driving it off a cliff.
C.She decided to laud her favorite dessert after finishing it.
D.After the meeting, they lauded the wall for its beautiful color.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'laud'?
A.Admonish
B.Neglect
C.Exalt
D.Doubt
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of the word 'laud'?
A.Condemn
B.Praise
C.Celebrate
D.Commend
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context in which one might use 'laud'?
A.Many people do not appreciate art exhibitions.
B.During a ceremony, the host remarks on the effort and dedication shown by the participants.
C.The coach had to scold the team for their performance last night.
D.The professor criticized students for not taking the subject seriously.
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