What does proclamation mean?
A proclamation is a formal announcement made publicly, especially by a government, monarch, or other official authority. The word suggests both the communication of news and the authority of the person or institution making it. A proclamation may announce a policy, commemorate an event, proclaim a principle, or take the form of an official document. In everyday use, the term has a deliberately formal and occasionally ceremonial tone, so it is less suitable for minor notices or casual remarks. The related verb is proclaim, meaning to announce or declare publicly, often with an implication of authority, celebration, or formal recognition. The word is especially common in political, governmental, legal, and historical contexts, where it describes official statements intended to inform the public and give a decision or principle public standing.
nounA formal or public announcement, especially one made by an official authority or political leader. It can also refer to a document or statement issued to announce a significant event, policy, or principle.
- A formal or public announcement, especially one made by an official authority.
- A formal statement, decree, or document announcing a decision, policy, or event.
- The act of proclaiming or making known publicly.
"The government issued a proclamation announcing the new public holiday."
"The monarch's proclamation was read throughout the kingdom."
"The exhibition opened with a proclamation celebrating the artists' contribution."
Used when referring to multiple formal announcements, documents, or declarations.
"The proclamations were published in the official gazette."
A proclamation is a public announcement with the force of official voice, often turning a decision or occasion into a public declaration.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does proclamation come from?
The word comes from the Latin proclamare, meaning to cry out or announce publicly. It entered English through the French proclamation, originally referring to a public announcement, and was later associated especially with official or formal declarations. Its underlying sense of making something known by proclamation survives in modern uses involving governments, monarchs, and other authorities.
How proclamation is actually used
Generally formal and often institutional, legal, or political. It is more authoritative than an ordinary announcement and may sound ceremonial or official.
Easily confused with proclamation
A proclamation is usually a formal public announcement, whereas a declaration can be a broader statement of opinion, intention, or fact.
An announcement is a general notice, while a proclamation often carries greater official authority or ceremonial importance.