exclaim

verb ex·claim \iks-ˈklām\

: to say (something) in an enthusiastic or forceful way

: to cry out or speak suddenly or with strong feeling

Full Definition of EXCLAIM

intransitive verb

: to cry out or speak in strong or sudden emotion <exclaimed in delight>

: to speak loudly or vehemently <exclaimed against immorality>

transitive verb

: to utter sharply, passionately, or vehemently : proclaim

— ex·claim·er noun

See exclaim defined for English-language learners

See exclaim defined for kids

Origin of EXCLAIM

Middle French exclamer, from Latin exclamare, from ex- + clamare to cry out — more at claim

First Known Use: 1566

Related to EXCLAIM

Synonyms: blat, blurt (out), bolt, cry (out), ejaculate

EXCLAIMER Defined for Kids

exclaim

verb ex·claim \ik-ˈsklām\

ex·claimedex·claim·ing

Definition of EXCLAIM for Kids

: to speak or cry out suddenly or with strong feeling

Word Root of EXCLAIM

The Latin word clamāre, meaning “to shout” or “to cry out,” gives us the root clam and its form claim. Words from the Latin clamāre have something to do with shouting. To exclaim is to cry out in a sudden or emotional way. To proclaim is to announce or shout something publicly. Clamor is noisy shouting.