Here are some key definitions taught in this public speaking course:
PA
Abbreviation for Public Address system.
Panel
A group of presenters, usually seated, discussing a particular subject. Audience members may ask questions of individuals or the group.
Parody
A humorous imitation of a serious work of literature, speech, or song.
Planned Spontaneity
Pre-arranged material delivered in a way that appears spontaneous. See also Canned Ad-lib.
Plant
A person posing as an audience member but actually assisting the speaker. Also called Shill.
Platform
A raised area where the speaker stands. Also Dais, Riser, Podium, or Stage.
Pleonasm
The use of redundant words or concepts together, such as “frozen ice” or “sharp point.”
Plug
An informal advertisement made during a presentation to promote a product or service.
Podium
Often used interchangeably with Platform, though technically different. Also Dais, Riser, or Stage.
Practical Joke
A playful trick that may embarrass the recipient. Also called Prank.
Pratfall
An exaggerated fall performed intentionally for comedic effect.
Pre-Program Questionnaire
A document used to gather information to customize a presentation.
Press Kit
A package of promotional information about a speaker or performer.
Prompter
A device displaying a script for the speaker to read discreetly. In theater, a person who helps actors with forgotten lines.
Prop
Any object used or handled by a performer during a presentation.
Public Address System
Equipment used to amplify sound for an audience. Abbreviated PA.
Public Domain
Material that may be used freely without attribution requirements.
Public Seminar
An educational event open to the general public.
Pun
A humorous play on words based on similar sounds or meanings.
Punch Line
The final word or phrase in a humorous statement that triggers laughter.
Q&A
The question-and-answer portion of a presentation.
Rapport
A sense of connection and mutual trust between speaker and audience.
Rehearse
To practice thoroughly before delivering a presentation.
Relevance, Theory Of
The belief that humor in business presentations should directly relate to the topic, audience, speaker, or location.
Repartee
A lively exchange of quick, witty responses. Also Comeback or Riposte.
Repeat Engagement
A second presentation delivered to the same group.
Response to Introduction
Remarks made after being introduced, directed toward the introducer or audience.
Riposte
A sharp, quick reply. Also Comeback.
Riser
See Platform.
Roast
An event where the guest of honor is humorously teased in good spirit.
Roastmaster
The Master of Ceremonies at a roast event.
Role Play
An interactive exercise where participants assume specific roles.
Rule of Three
A humorous structure where two serious items establish a pattern and the third breaks it for comedic effect.
Running Gag
A recurring joke referenced multiple times throughout a presentation.
Saver Line
A remark used to recover from a failed humorous comment.
Sarcasm
A sharp or ironic form of humor often intended to mock.
Segue
To transition smoothly from one topic to another.
Self-Effacing Humor
Humor that highlights the speaker’s own weaknesses in a positive way.
Seminar
An educational session ranging from 30 minutes to several days.
Shill
A planted audience member assisting with a gag.
Shtick
A distinctive routine, style, or trademark behavior of a performer.
Simile
A comparison using “like” or “as” to show similarity.
Site
The location of a meeting. Also called Venue.
Slapstick
Broad physical comedy involving exaggerated action.
Sound System
See Public Address System.
Speakers Bureau
An organization that provides speakers for events.
Spokesperson
A representative who speaks on behalf of an organization or individual.
Stage Fright
Nervousness experienced before or during public performance.
Stooge
An assistant who supports the main performer, often as part of the joke.
Tailoring
Adjusting material to suit a specific audience.
TelePrompter
A brand name commonly used to describe a prompter device.
Test Humor
Early humor used to gauge the audience’s receptiveness.
Testimonial
A written or spoken recommendation supporting a speaker’s credibility.
Theater Style Seating
Chairs arranged in rows without tables.
Timing
The control of pacing and pauses for dramatic or comedic effect.
Toastmaster
See Emcee.
Trainer
A person who conducts workshops and training sessions.
Transcribe
To create a written version of spoken content.
Transparency
A slide viewed by projection or light shining through it.
Two-Step Seminar
A free seminar designed to encourage attendees to purchase a second event or product.
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