1 C1 idiomatic informal
To applaud as someone arrives or enters, as a gesture of welcome or honor.
"The staff lined the corridor to clap in the returning Olympic champion."
inseparable
clap in
C1 informal inseparable transitive
To welcome someone by applauding as they arrive or enter.
In plain English
Everyone claps to say hello when someone walks in.
What does "clap in" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To strike your palms together as someone enters (inward motion).
Actually means
Everyone claps to say hello when someone walks in.
Usage tip
Used in workplaces, schools, or ceremonies to honor someone entering a space. Common in British English for welcoming a retiring colleague's replacement or a new team member on their first day.
Words that pair with "clap in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
new employee guest player honoree colleague
How to conjugate "clap in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
clap in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
claps in
he/she/it
Past simple
claped in
yesterday
Past participle
claped in
have + pp
-ing form
claping in
continuous
Hear "clap in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "clap in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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