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ovation definition

ova·tion (ō vā′s̸hən)

noun

  1. in ancient Rome, a lesser ceremonial tribute to a hero whose deeds were not great enough to justify a full triumph
  2. an enthusiastic outburst of applause or an enthusiastic public welcome

Etymology: L ovatio < ovare, to celebrate a triumph, akin to Gr euazein, to rejoice, euai, a cry of Bacchic joy

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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