Proclaim

Definition

Proclaim typically means to announce something publicly or officially, especially something positive.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /proʊˈkleɪm/
• Respelling: pro-KLAYM (with "pro" as in "pro," and "KLAYM" as in "clay" + "aim")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈkleɪm/
• Respelling: pruh-KLAYM (with "pruh" as a less emphasized "pro," and "KLAYM" as in "clay" + "aim")

In both dialects, "proclaim" is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, "KLAYM." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "KLAYM" part.

Etymology

"Proclaim" derives from the Latin "proclamare," where "pro-" means "forward, out" and "clamare" means "to cry out." It entered the English language in the 14th century through Old French "proclamer."

Derivatives

• Proclamation
• Proclaimer
• Proclaimed
• Proclaiming
• Unproclaimed

Synonyms

• Announce
• Declare
• Pronounce

Antonyms

• Conceal
• Suppress
• Withhold

Usage

"Proclaim" is often used when someone wants to make a public or formal announcement. It can be in the context of laws, celebrations, or any important information that needs to be widely disseminated.

Related Terms

• Declaration
• Announcement
• Pronouncement

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Announce Formally: To declare or announce something in a public or formal manner.
• Example: The president proclaimed the 10th of October a national holiday.

• To Indicate or Show Clearly: To demonstrate or make evident a quality, feeling, or fact.
• Example: The elegant design of the building proclaims the genius of its architect.

• To Declare a Fact or Truth: To affirm or assert something, typically in a confident manner.
• Example: He proclaimed his innocence despite the allegations.