Category:Declaim

De*claim", v. i. [imp. & p. p. Declaimed; p. pr. & vb. n. Declaiming.] Etym: [L. declamare; de- + clamare to cry out: cf. F. déclamer. See Claim.]

1. To speak rhetorically; to make a formal speech or oration; to harangue; specifically, to recite a speech, poem, etc., in public as a rhetorical exercise; to practice public speaking; as, the students declaim twice a week.

2. To speak for rhetorical display; to speak pompously, noisily, or theatrically; to make an empty speech; to rehearse trite arguments in debate; to rant. Grenville seized the opportunity to declaim on the repeal of the stamp act. Bancroft.

declaim De*claim", v. t.

1. To utter in public; to deliver in a rhetorical or set manner.

2. To defend by declamation; to advocate loudly. [Obs.] "Declaims his cause." South.