De‐claim″ (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p.Declaimed (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Declaiming.] [L. declamare; de- + clamare to cry out: cf. F. déclamer. See Claim.] 1. To speak rhetorically; to make a formal speech or oration; to harangue; specifically, to recite a speech, poem, etc., in public as a rhetorical exercise; to practice public speaking; as, the students declaim twice a week.
2. To speak for rhetorical display; to speak pompously, noisily, or theatrically; to make an empty speech; to rehearse trite arguments in debate; to rant.
Grenville seized the opportunity to declaim on the repeal of the stamp act. Bancroft.