Applause

Applause is the act of clapping, or striking the palms of the hands together, in order to create noise.

In most western countries applause is a sign of approval. Audiences are usually expected to applaud after a performance, such as a muscial concert, speech, or play.

In some European countries, audiences clap rhythmically in unison, about two claps per second, to indicate approval. In some cultures, however, clapping in unison is understood as disapproval, and is an insult to the performer.