extol

To extol something is to praise it very highly and with real feeling, almost as if you are lifting it up with your words. It's more than just saying you like something; it's speaking about it with strong admiration. Think of poets who extol the beauty of nature, or historians who extol the bravery of heroes. You might extol the value of hard work, or a friend might extol your baking skills. The word carries a sense of genuine praise and often suggests that the thing being praised is special or worthy of admiration.

The verb "extol" means to praise someone or something very highly. It goes beyond simple approval; it's about raising an idea, a person, or a quality in the eyes of others through warm, admiring language. The word comes from the Latin extollere, meaning "to raise up" or "exalt."

You wouldn't simply say you "like" a beautiful sunset; you might extol its breathtaking colors and peaceful atmosphere. A critic might extol the genius of a particular author, pointing to that writer's unique style and deep insight. In older writing, the word was often used for praising gods, rulers, or noble ideals, as in hymns and formal speeches.

Today, it's used in more everyday contexts, but it still has a somewhat formal tone. You might read about leaders who extol the importance of education, or communities that extol the values of compassion and service. It's often found in writing where strong praise is intended, such as speeches, essays, reviews, or poetry.

So, if you want to express deep admiration and celebrate something exceptional, don't just praise it—extol it! Let your words lift it up for all the world to see.