Acclamation, n.
Etymology: [L. acclamatio: cf. F. acclamation.]
1. A shout of approbation, favor, or assent; eager expression of approval; loud applause. On such a day, a holiday having been voted by acclamation, an ordinary walk would not satisfy the children. Southey.
2. (Antiq.)
A representation, in sculpture or on medals, of people expressing joy. Acclamation medals are those on which laudatory acclamations are recorded. Elmes.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for acclamation; he lists it under praise.
Where he writes about it:
Applause is expressed in any way, by stamping of feet, clapping of hands, waving of handkerchiefs, etc., as well as by the voice; acclamation is the spontaneous and hearty approval of many at once, and strictly by the voice alone. — from praise
Thus one is chosen moderator by acclamation when he receives a unanimous viva voce vote; we could not say he was nominated by applause. — from praise
Acclaim is the more poetic term for acclamation, commonly understood in a loftier sense; as, a nation's acclaim. — from praise