Claque (noun)

1. A group of people hired to applaud at a performance.
2. A group of admirers or supporters.

Origin:

Derived from french claque (a slap or clapping).

Examples:

1. The claque at the theater was so obvious, it was clear they were paid to be there.
2. The senator had a claque of supporters who always cheered his speeches.
3. The claque at the concert was so loud, it drowned out the music.
4. The claque was so well-organized, they knew exactly when to clap and when to cheer.
5. The claque was so large, it seemed like the whole audience was in on it.