Here are some key definitions taught in this public speaking course:
Acronym
A form of abbreviation in which the letters create a new word, such as HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development) or JIRC (Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission).
Ad-lib
Unplanned words or phrases spoken during a presentation.
Alliteration
The repetition of the same initial sound or letter in a group of words, such as “from stem to stern.”
Anachronism
A person, place, or event placed in a time period where it does not belong (for example, George Washington sitting in front of a modern computer).
Analogy
A comparison between two things that share similarities but also have differences, such as comparing the brain to a computer.
Anecdote
A short, interesting, or amusing story used to illustrate a point.
Aside
In theater, a remark made directly to the audience that other characters pretend not to hear. In presentations, a brief departure from the main topic.
Attribution
Crediting the original source of material used in a presentation.
Audience Gag
A joke played on the audience, sometimes involving willing participants.
Audience Participation
When the audience actively engages during a presentation—joining discussions, participating in activities, singing, or even coming on stage.
A/V
Abbreviation for audiovisual equipment, including projectors, microphones, recorders, and other presentation tools.
Bits
A short, related section of material that is easy to memorize. Also called Chunks or Series.
Black Humor
Humor that finds absurdity even in tragic or serious situations. Also known as Sick Humor or Gallows Humor. Not recommended for professional presentations.
Blocking
The positioning and movement of the speaker and equipment on stage.
Blooper
A clumsy public mistake or “faux pas.”
Blue Humor
Risqué or inappropriate humor that can damage professional credibility. Also called Off-color Humor.
Bomb
In the U.S., a major failure; in the U.K., a major success.
Bombproofing
Preparing thoroughly as a presenter to prevent failure.
Breakout Session
Dividing a large group into smaller groups to explore specialized topics.
Callback
Referring back to a word, idea, or joke mentioned earlier in a presentation.
Canned Act
Using standard material regardless of audience composition. Also called Planned Spontaneity.
Canned Ad-lib
A pre-planned response to a potential presentation issue or audience comment.
Caricature
An exaggerated illustration emphasizing distinctive features for comic or grotesque effect.
Cartoon
An illustrated joke or comic strip.
Cheap Laugh
Easy, often low-quality humor used to provoke simple laughter.
Chunks
See Bits.
Classroom Seating
A seating arrangement where chairs are placed behind tables.
Cliché
An overused expression, such as “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Comeback
A clever or humorous response to an audience comment. Also called Repartee or Riposte.
Comedian
A performer whose primary purpose is to entertain through humor. Also called Comic.
Comedienne
An older term referring to a female comedian.
Comic Relief
A humorous element introduced into serious content to relieve tension.
Comic Strip
A cartoon presented in a sequence of related scenes.
Concurrent Session
A session taking place at the same time as another session.
Content
The usable and meaningful information in a presentation.
Convulsive Laughter
Intense laughter that causes noticeable physical movement.
Cordless Microphone
A wireless microphone that transmits signals to a receiver connected to the PA system.
Custom Humor
Humor specifically created for a particular audience.
Dais
A raised platform at the front of a room where the speaker stands. Also called Podium, Riser, Stage, or Platform.
Deadpan Expression
A serious facial expression used while delivering humorous lines.
Demo Tape
An audio or video recording used to promote a speaker or performer.
Downstage
The area of the stage closest to the audience.
Dynamic Range
The range of vocal intensity available to a speaker—from a soft whisper to a powerful projection.
Easel
A stand used to support flipcharts or visual materials.
Emcee
An informal term for Master of Ceremonies. Also called MC, Toastmaster, or Roastmaster.
Exaggeration Humor
Expanding or minimizing details to extreme levels for comic effect.
Extemporaneous
A presentation delivered with minimal preparation, appearing spontaneous.
Extender Line
An additional line added to a humorous comment to generate further laughter.
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