Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

claque

noun

/klæk/

Definition

A group of people hired to applaud a performer or a public speaker, often to create an illusion of popularity.

Examples

The new play was so well-received, many suspected it had a claque cheering it on from the front row.
During the speech, a claque was present, ensuring the audience felt the speaker was more popular than they really were.
Some critics argue that without the claque, the artist would not have achieved the same level of acclaim.

Meaning

A claque is essentially an audience that is either paid or organized to show enthusiasm for a performance or speaker, influencing the perception of the event’s success.