What does it mean to praise a person or their achievements highly, especially in a public context?

To praise a person or their achievements highly, especially in a public context, is to laud them. This term conveys a sense of admiration and approval, often articulated in a formal or public manner, celebrating someone's accomplishments and contributions.

In contrast, censure implies a formal disapproval or condemnation, typically in a negative light, which does not relate to praising someone. Critique involves analyzing and evaluating something, which can be either positive or negative, but does not specifically refer to high praise. Denounce involves publicly declaring something bad or wrong, which is also contrary to the concept of praising someone. Therefore, lauding someone encapsulates the idea of giving them high praise in a manner that highlights their achievements positively.