ovation
UK: əʊˈveɪʃ(ə)n | US: oʊˈveɪʃ(ə)n
n. enthusiastic applause or approval, especially as shown by a prolonged clapping or cheering
n. (historical) a lesser form of Roman triumph awarded for victories without significant bloodshed
ovation = ov<sheep> + ation<noun suffix>
- ov<sheep>: From Latin ovis (sheep), referencing the ancient Roman tradition of sacrificing a sheep (instead of the usual bull) during a minor victory celebration.
- ation<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns denoting an action or process, from Latin -atio.
Etymology Origin:
The word ovation originates from Latin ovatio, a lesser form of triumph in ancient Rome. Unlike a full triumph, which involved grand processions and bull sacrifices, an ovatio was awarded for smaller victories and featured the general entering Rome on foot, accompanied by the humbler sacrifice of a sheep (ovis). Over time, the term evolved to signify enthusiastic applause, mirroring the celebratory nature of the Roman ritual.
The actor received a standing ovation for his powerful performance.
Her speech ended with thunderous ovation from the audience.
In ancient Rome, an ovation was a mark of honor for minor military successes.
The team’s victory parade turned into a spontaneous ovation from fans.
Critics gave the film a lukewarm review, but viewers responded with a heartfelt ovation.