verb
exclaim
ehk-SKLAYM
verb
1
To cry out suddenly, usually because of a strong feeling like surprise, pain, or delight.
""Watch out!" she exclaimed as the car sped past."
"He exclaimed in disbelief when he saw the final bill."
How to Use Exclaim
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo blurt something out loudly because of a sudden, strong emotion.
Common mistake
Usually used with a direct quotation, like "said" but with more emotional punch.
Common pairings
exclaim in surprise
exclaim loudly
Word Forms
exclaimed past tense, exclaims plural, exclaims singular
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"Watch out!" she _____ as the car sped past.
Etymology
From Latin exclamare, "to call out" — ex ("out") plus clamare ("to shout").