What Makes This Word Tick
"Extol" carries a sense of admiration and celebration. It’s not just about liking something; it's showering it with praise and broadcasting its virtues. If someone extols something, they're giving it the verbal version of a standing ovation!
If Extol Were a Person…
Imagine a friendly cheerleader who never misses a moment to highlight someone's strengths. This person would be upbeat, always ready with a compliment, and known for making others feel as if they're the star of the show.
How This Word Has Changed Over Time
"Extol" has kept a relatively steady course through the English language, consistently reflecting praise. While its usage has dwindled in casual conversation over the years, it still pops up in more formal settings where a touch of elegance is warranted.
Old Sayings and Proverbs That Use Extol
While there might not be age-old sayings that directly use "extol," the spirit of the word echoes in ideas like giving credit where credit's due or singing someone's praises.
Surprising Facts About Extol
The word "extol" often appears in religious texts, emphasizing reverence and admiration, particularly when venerating a deity or a person of high stature. Despite its niche, it features prominently in hymns and prayers.
Out and About With This Word
In daily life, you might find "extol" in the speeches of public figures, book reviews, or even an enthusiastic letter of recommendation. It's a polished word that adds flair to the act of praising.
Pop Culture Moments Where Extol Was Used
Although "extol" isn't shouting its presence in pop songs or films, you'll likely bump into it in sophisticated critiques from art or literary critics who use it to sound fancy while praising a magnum opus.
The Word in Literature
"Extol" fits comfortably into the writings of Jane Austen or Charles Dickens, where characters often wax poetic, lavishing praise and admiration in a refined manner. It's at home in narratives filled with elegance and eloquence.
Moments in History with Extol
Consider the speeches of leaders who have used powerful words to rally people, where "extol" could easily underscore moments of honor, valor, or achievements, echoing the tone of Churchill or Roosevelt.
This Word Around the World
Globally, variations of "extol" appear in many languages with similar meanings, such as "exaltare" in Italian or "alabar" in Spanish. Each carries a cultural nuance but holds the same core essence of high praise.
Where Does It Come From?
"Extol" comes from the Latin verb "extollere," which means to lift up or raise. The roots themselves give an image of elevating something to a high stature, a fitting origin for such a word.
How People Misuse This Word
Sometimes people use "extol" when "mention" or "note" would be more accurate, thinking it simply means to talk about rather than specifically to praise.
Words It’s Often Confused With
Exalt: While similar, "exalt" often has a more formal or religious connotation.
Praise: A broader term that's less formal, it overlaps with "extol."
Compliment: Usually more personal and less formal than "extol."
Additional Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms include laud, acclaim, and celebrate, while antonyms feature criticize, condemn, and disparage, highlighting a clear contrast between praise and reproach.
Want to Try It Out in a Sentence?
"The restaurant critic's review did more than just praise the chef; it extolled his culinary genius, drawing diners from near and far."
