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.”
The Structure of Effective Persuasive Arguments
A persuasive argument is more than a strong opinion. It is a carefully built message that gives readers a clear reason to accept a position, support a decision, or reconsider what they believe. Good persuasion does not depend only on emotion or confidence. It depends on structure. An effective persuasive argument usually includes a clear […]
Managing Time Effectively During a Speech
Managing time effectively during a speech is one of the most important public speaking skills. A speech can have strong ideas, useful examples, and a confident speaker, but it can still lose impact if the timing is poor. When a speaker rushes, the audience may miss key points. When a speaker goes over time, the […]
The Difference Between Metaphor, Simile, and Analogy
Metaphor, simile, and analogy are three common ways to compare ideas. They appear in literature, essays, speeches, classroom discussions, and everyday language. At first, they seem very similar because all three connect one thing with another. However, they do not work in exactly the same way. A metaphor creates a direct image by saying that […]