Applause is one of the oldest and most widely used sound effects in broadcasting, theatre and film, where recorded crowd reactions have long stood in for a live audience. Online, short applause clips became a staple of soundboards, reaction videos and stream overlays because the sound is instantly understood across languages and contexts. Creators use it to mark victories, thank viewers, mock an awkward moment with sarcastic clapping, or give a joke a studio audience feel. Its staying power comes from that simplicity, as few sounds signal approval so immediately.