exclaim

verb

ex·​claim ik-ˈsklām 

exclaimed; exclaiming; exclaims

intransitive verb

1

: to cry out or speak in strong or sudden emotion

exclaimed in delight

2

: to speak loudly or vehemently

exclaimed against immorality

transitive verb

: to utter sharply, passionately, or vehemently : proclaim

exclaimer noun

Synonyms

• blat
• blurt (out)
• bolt
• cry (out)
• ejaculate

Examples of exclaim in a Sentence

“Here he comes!” someone exclaimed.

She exclaimed in delight over the Christmas tree.

The children exclaimed with wonder when they saw the elephant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Any of my friends who have allegiances to Western Conference squads will often lament the tough start of their team or a bad stretch for their beloved franchise, only to then exclaim what their positioning would be in the East. —Zach Harper, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024

Jelly Roll exclaimed, pointing to his own neck, and got to work. —Janine Henni, People.com, 19 Nov. 2024

Shekinah exclaimed while hugging a less-than-enthusiastic Sarper. —Abigail Adams, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024

Dasha exclaimed, admiring her new tequila keepsake, which had her name spelled out in pink jewels. —Matt Tighe, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Kids Definition

exclaim

verb

ex·​claim iks-ˈklām 

: to cry out or speak suddenly or with strong feeling

exclaimed in delight