Declaim

/dɪˈkleɪm/ · verb

Meaning

To object to something vociferously; to rail against in speech..

Definitions by Sense

1. To object to something vociferously; to rail against in speech.
2. To recite, e.g., poetry, in a theatrical way; to speak for rhetorical display; to speak pompously, noisily, or theatrically; bemouth; to make an empty speech; to rehearse trite arguments in debate; to rant.
3. To speak rhetorically; to make a formal speech or oration; specifically, to recite a speech, poem, etc., in public as a rhetorical exercise; to practice public speaking.
4. (proscribed) To disclaim, disavow.

Example Sentences

Grenville seized the opportunity to declaim on the repeal of the stamp act.

The students declaim twice a week.

He now declaimed having intended any thing disrespectful to the Senate in the expression he had used.

Unless these conditions are fulfilled we declaim responsibility.

Of course, a small minority has always declaimed any religious affiliation, and some agnostics have been prominent figures in American public life.

Synonyms for declaim

Antonyms for declaim

Related Words

Word Forms

• declaims
• declaiming
• declaimed

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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