Applaud

Applaud are third sphere archangels which are on the eight rank of the Hierarchy of Laguna, the chain of command of the Angels of Paradiso. They are humanoid/bird-like Angels that often acts as the commanders of small groups of Affinity but are still considered to be very low in the angelic chain of command and can still manifest themselves before regular humans if they are extremely pious.

Bayonetta
In Bayonetta, they are extremely common enemies and often appears as the commander of multiple Affinity or under the orders of an Ardor. They either have a spear or a bow that can be turned into twin swords.

Bayonetta 2
In Bayonetta 2 they only appear during the chapters located 500 years in the past, during most of the main story Affinity and Applaud are replaced by Acceptance and Accolade who have the exact same role of regular weaker enemies than they had in the first game.

Hierarchy of Laguna
"While still a member of the Third Sphere, Applauds are one step above Affinities, and thus known as Archangels. Occupying the eighth position within the nine-level Angelic Hierarchy, Archangels are still considered close to the physical world, and often come into contact with human kind. It is said that devoted prayer on the part of believers can call upon a flock of angels to come to one's aid."