CLAQUES Meaning and
Definition
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Claques, noun (singular: claque)
1. A group of specially hired individuals who attend public performances, such as theater shows, concerts, or opera, to create an atmosphere of approval and ensure positive, enthusiastic applause. These members of the claque are instructed to react favorably to a performance, often by applauding loudly, cheering, or shouting expressions of delight. The primary purpose of claques is to influence the audience's perception of the show by generating an impression of popular endorsement. Claques originated in the early 19th century in France and were popularized during the Romantic period.
2. The term "claques" can also refer to the organized group itself. These groups were typically organized by a leader, known as a "chef de claque," who directed and coordinated the clappers' actions throughout the performance. To ensure maximum impact, members of the claque were often strategically placed in the audience, dispersed among regular spectators, but distinct in their concerted responses to the performance. While claques were most commonly associated with European theaters, they have been known to exist in other parts of the world as well.
3. In a more general sense, the term "claques" can be metaphorically used to describe a group of individuals who act in a synchronized, predetermined manner to influence public opinion or judgment, often in a deceptive or contrived manner. This meaning extends beyond the realm of performances and can encompass politics, advertising, or any other context where the manipulation of public sentiment is a central objective.
Common Misspellings for CLAQUES
Etymology of CLAQUES
The word "claques" is derived from the French language. Its etymology can be traced back to the 19th century in Paris, where it was primarily used in the theatrical context. The word comes from the French verb "claquer", which means to clap or to strike.
In the context of the theater, a "claque" referred to a group of individuals who would be paid to applaud or create an enthusiastic reaction during performances. These individuals were often hired by actors or producers to enhance the audience's response and generate a positive atmosphere in the theater.
Over time, the word "claques" expanded its meaning beyond the theater and began to refer to any organized group or individuals who would applaud or support someone or something on command. It became associated with the practice of hiring or organizing artificial applause or support.
Similar spelling words for CLAQUES
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