Applause is the clapping of hands by an audience to show approval, enjoyment, or praise.
From Latin "applaudere" meaning "to clap approval," built from "ad-" (toward) and "plaudere" (to clap). The word originally described the physical act that signaled support.
Applause is such a powerful social signal that laugh tracks and clapping sounds can make jokes seem funnier and speeches more inspiring. We’re wired to trust the sound of many hands agreeing.
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