Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DE-CLAIM', v.i. [L. declamo; de and clamo, to cry out. See Claim and Clamor.]

1. To speak a set oration in public; to speak rhetorically; to make a formal speech, or oration; as, the students declaim twice a week.
2. To harangue; to speak loudly or earnestly, to a public body or assembly, with a view to convince their minds or move their passions.