Here are some key definitions taught in this public speaking course:
Keynote
The main speech delivered to all attendees during a general session of a meeting. Historically, it referred to the central theme or main point of a speech.
Lavaliere
A corded or wireless microphone worn around the neck or clipped to clothing. Also known as a hands-free microphone.
Lectern
A stand with a sloping top from which a speaker delivers a presentation. It is often incorrectly referred to as a podium.
Localization and Personalization
The process of adapting details of a story, example, or joke to better connect with a specific audience.
Malaprop
An absurd or humorous misuse of a word, often replacing it with a similar-sounding but incorrect term. See also: Goldwynism.
Master of Ceremonies
The host of an event who delivers the opening remarks and introduces speakers or entertainers. Also known as Toastmaster, Roastmaster, Emcee, or MC.
MC
noun: Abbreviation for Master of Ceremonies.
verb: To act as Master of Ceremonies (e.g., “Joe will MC the event.”)
Meeting Planner
The person responsible for organizing the logistical aspects of a meeting, including room setup, venue arrangements, catering, travel coordination, and sometimes speaker booking. Also known as Coordinator, Organizer, or Planner.
Metaphor
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase typically used for one thing is applied to another to create comparison or symbolic meaning, such as “She is an angel on the platform.”
Mic
An abbreviation for microphone, pronounced “mike.”
Moderator
A person who presides over a meeting, panel discussion, or debate.
Multimedia
The combined use of various media formats—such as video, slides, music, and lighting—typically for educational or entertainment purposes.
Off-Color Humor
Humor that may be considered inappropriate or risqué. See also: Blue Humor.
Off the Cuff
Speaking in an informal or impromptu manner. Historically, speakers would write notes on their shirt cuffs instead of preparing formally.
One-Liner
A very brief joke or humorous statement.
Overhead Projector
A device used to project images from transparent film onto a screen or wall.
Oxymoron
A combination of two seemingly contradictory terms used together, such as “old news,” “extensive briefing,” “criminal justice,” “military intelligence,” “direct circumvention,” or “random order.”
How to Handle Unexpected Questions with Confidence
Unexpected questions can appear in almost any speaking situation: a presentation, interview, classroom discussion, meeting, debate, or public Q&A session. Even when you know your topic well, a sudden question can interrupt your rhythm and make you feel exposed. Confidence in these moments does not mean having a perfect answer immediately. It means staying calm, […]
Allusion in Speech: Definition and Strategic Purpose
Some of the most memorable speeches do not explain every idea directly. Instead, they point toward something the audience already knows: a historical moment, a famous character, a religious image, a myth, a public slogan, or a cultural symbol. This rhetorical technique is called allusion. Allusion allows a speaker to say more with fewer words. […]
How Audience Awareness Shapes Rhetorical Strategy
Strong communication is never only about having a good idea. It is also about knowing who needs to hear that idea, how they are likely to receive it, and what will make them pay attention. A message that sounds clear and persuasive to one audience may seem confusing, boring, or unconvincing to another. That is […]