adlib

UK: /ˌædˈlɪb/ | US: /ˌædˈlɪb/

Definition

  1. v. to speak or perform without preparation; improvise

  2. n. something said or done spontaneously

Structure
ad <to, toward>lib <free>
Etymology

The term adlib originates from the Latin phrase ad libitum, meaning "at one's pleasure" or "freely." In music, it denoted passages where performers could improvise. Over time, it was shortened to adlib in English, retaining its core idea of spontaneity and freedom from scripted structure.

Examples

  1. The actor forgot his lines but managed to adlib convincingly.

  2. She’s great at adlibbing jokes during her stand-up routines.

  3. The director encouraged the cast to adlib some dialogue for a natural feel.

  4. His speech was mostly adlibbed, yet remarkably eloquent.

  5. The musician added an adlib solo that wowed the audience.