elocution
UK: ˌeləˈkjuːʃn | US: ˌeləˈkjuːʃn
n. the skill of clear and expressive speech, especially of distinct pronunciation and articulation
n. the art of public speaking with fluency and effectiveness
Derived from Latin elocutio (from eloqui, "to speak out"), combining e- (a variant of ex-, meaning "out") and loqui ("to speak"). The suffix -tion forms nouns indicating an action or process. Originally used in rhetoric to describe the delivery of speech, elocution evolved in English (16th century) to emphasize clarity and style in oral expression. The morphemes reflect a literal "speaking out," aligning with its focus on articulate communication.
Her elocution was so polished that every word resonated in the auditorium.
The debate coach emphasized the importance of elocution for persuasive speaking.
Classical actors often train rigorously to master elocution.
His poor elocution made it difficult to understand his presentation.
The elocution competition judged participants on pronunciation and fluency.