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Public Speaking Course:Glossary P-TGlossary A-E Here are some key definitions taught in my public speaking course. PA: Abbreviation for public address system. Panel: A group of presenters, normally seated, that hold a discussion on a particular subject. Audience members are invited to pose questions to individual presenters or to the group as a whole. Parody: A humorous imitation of a serious piece of literature or song. Planned spontaneity: See Canned ad-lib. Plant: A person pretending to be a normal audience member, who, in fact, is there to assist the speaker in some way. Also Shill. Platform: Raised area in front of the audience where the speaker stands. Also, Dais, Riser, Podium or Stage. (as in "Platform Speaker") Pleonasm: The bringing together of two concepts or words that are redundant like frozen ice, sharp point, killed dead, sandy beach, young child, positive praise (in ways different than 'oxymoron') Plug: An informal advertisement made during a presentation used to promote a product or service. Podium: See Platform. Many people call a lectern a podium. This is technically incorrect, but very common. Practical joke: A playful trick that usually puts the receiver in an embarrassing position. Also Prank. Prank: A practical joke that could be good natured or malicious. See Practical joke. Pratfall: In comedy, an on-purpose, exaggerated fall to the floor usually accompanied by flailing arms and legs for effect. Pre-program questionnaire: Information gathering document used to customize a presentation. Press kit: A package of information used to promote a speaker or performer. Prompter: A device used to electronically display a magnified version of the script the speaker can see, but the audience can't. (Commonly called a TelePrompter, which is actually a registered trade name.) Prop: A shortened version of the theatrical term "property" used to describe Public address system: Abbreviated PA. The equipment used to amplify sound for the audience. Public domain: Material that anyone can use without the need to give credit. Public seminar: An educational event which is open to the public. Pun: The humorous use of words that sound alike or nearly alike but are different in meaning as in "Isn't this a punny book?" Punch line: The climactic word or phrase of a humorous statement that provokes laughter. Q&A: Abbreviation for the question and answer portion of a presentation. Rapport: Of French origin, connection with the audience, especially one of mutual trust or emotional attraction. Rehearse: To practice for a presentation until all the rough spots are smoothed. Relevance, Theory of: Belief that the only humor used in a business presentation should be related to the subject of the presentation, Repartee: A conversation full of quick, witty replies. Also Comeback, Riposte. Repeat engagement: A second presentation for the same group. Response to Introduction: After the introduction, comments directed to the introducer or the audience about the introduction or introducer. Riposte: Sharp, quick action or reply. Also Comeback. Riser: See Platform. Also, Dais, Podium or Stage. Roast: An event where the guest of honor is ridiculed and teased in a good-natured, comical manner. Roastmaster: The Master of Ceremonies at a roast, as derived from a "Toastmaster". Role play: An audience involvement exercise where the audience members and/or the presenter interact Rule of Three: Structure of humor where two serious items set a pattern then the third unexpectedly switches the pattern Running gag: A gag that repeats itself or plays off a gag that occurred earlier. Saver line: Comment made to recover from a (supposedly) humorous comment that failed. Sarcasm: A cutting, often ironic, form of wit intended to make its victim the butt of contempt or ridicule Segue: To move smoothly and unhesitatingly from one section or theme of a presentation to another. Self-effacing humor: A very powerful form of humor that highlights your own weaknesses. Seminar: An educational session lasting from 30 minutes to several days. Series: See Bits, or Chunks. Portions of a longer speech that is easier to learn, or remember. Shill: In comedy, a person planted in the audience to assist in a gag. Shtick: A characteristic attribute, talent, or trait that is helpful in securing recognition or attention. Sick humor: See Black humor. Signature story: A story that is credited to a particular person. This type of story should never be used without attribution. Simile: A comparison of two things which, however different in other respects, Site: The location of the meeting. Also Venue. Slapstick: Broad comedy involving boisterous action like throwing pies and fake violence ala The Three Stooges. Slide: A 35mm transparency. Sometimes used to describe an overhead transparency. Sound man (person): Person in charge of public address system, sound board, recording, etc. during a presentation. Sound system: See Public Address System. Speakers bureau: A service company that provides speakers for meeting planners. Spokesperson: A person who speaks for or represents a company, organization or other person. Stage: See Dais. Stage fright: Nervousness associated with performing or speaking before an audience. Stage left: As the performer faces the audience, the side of the stage to his/her left. Stage lights: Lights illuminating the stage area only. Stage right: As the performer faces the audience, the side of the stage to his/her right. Stooge: An entertainer who feeds lines to the main performer and frequently is the butt of the joke. Tailoring: Adjusting material to better suit a particular audience. Not quite customizing. TelePrompter: See Prompter. Test Humor: Humor used either in the introduction or early parts of a talk to determine the extent to which the audience is in fun. Testimonial: A statement, usually written, in support of a another's character or worth; a personal recommendation. Theater style seating: Seating where chairs are set in rows without tables. Timing: Adjusting one's speaking and pausing for dramatic or comical effect. Toastmaster: See Emcee. Trainer: A person who conducts workshops and training sessions. Transcribe: To make a written copy of a voice recording or presentation. Transparency: A slide that is viewed by light shining through it from behind or by projection. Also Slide. Two-step seminar: A free seminar where attendees are asked to buy a second seminar or purchase products.
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