1 [I,T] to hit your hands together noisily (clap) in order to show that you like sb/sth 鼓掌: The audience applauded loudly. 观众大声鼓掌。The team was applauded as it left the field. 球队离场时，受到鼓掌欢送。

2 [T] (usually passive 通常用于被动语态) to express approval of sth 表示赞同: The decision was applauded by everybody. 人人都赞许这个决定。