Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪˈnʌnsieɪt/

Definitions

• 1. To pronounce words or parts of words clearly and distinctly.
• 2. To articulate or express something in a clear and definite way.
• 3. To announce or declare formally.

Usage Examples

1. "She made sure to enunciate every word during her presentation."

2. "The teacher asked him to enunciate the difficult terms more clearly."

3. "The politician enunciated his policies during the campaign speech."

Etymology

From the Latin "enuntiare," meaning "to declare or announce," from "e-" (out) + "nuntiare" (to announce). The word "enunciate" first appeared in English in the early 16th century, primarily in the context of formal speech and rhetoric.

Synonyms

• Articulate
• Pronounce
• Express
• Declare
• Announce

Antonyms

• Mumble
• Whisper
• Stammer
• Inarticulate
• Murmer

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the stress is often placed on the second syllable: /ɪˈnʌnsieɪt/.
• In American English, the pronunciation remains similar, with slight variations in vowel sounds.
• In Indian English, the pronunciation can be influenced by regional accents, with an emphasis on clarity in articulation.

Historical Usage

The word "enunciate" has been used since the late 16th century, primarily in the context of public speaking and formal rhetoric. It gained importance in the 18th and 19th centuries as the study of phonetics and linguistics emerged, with a growing focus on the clarity of speech. The concept of enunciating words properly became a key component of effective communication in both professional and educational settings.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, enunciation is an important aspect of public speaking, law, and education. It reflects the speaker's authority and credibility. Clear enunciation is often associated with professionalism and respect, particularly in formal settings such as debates, presentations, and legal proceedings. In contrast, mumbling or poor enunciation may lead to misunderstandings or a lack of confidence in the speaker’s message.

More Information

Enunciating words clearly is crucial in various contexts, including public speaking, acting, and broadcasting. The ability to enunciate properly can influence how well the message is received by an audience. In language learning, enunciation is an important aspect of pronunciation practice. Mastering enunciation helps to ensure that communication is effective and that listeners can easily understand the speaker's intent. Whether in professional presentations or everyday conversations, enunciating words clearly is an essential skill for successful communication.