enunciate

UK: ɪˈnʌn.si.eɪt | US: ɪˈnʌn.si.eɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to pronounce words clearly and distinctly

  2. vt. to express (an idea or plan) in precise or formal terms

  3. vi. to articulate speech sounds

Structure
e <out>nunci <message>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin enuntiare ("to declare, announce"), combining e- (out) + nuntiare (to report, from nuntius, "messenger"). The morpheme nunci evolved into English words like "announce" and "pronounce," retaining its core meaning of conveying information. The suffix -ate marks it as a verb. Over time, "enunciate" specialized to emphasize clarity in speech or formal expression.

Examples
  1. The teacher asked the student to enunciate each syllable slowly.

  2. He enunciated his proposal with meticulous precision.

  3. Actors must enunciate clearly to be understood on stage.

  4. The diplomat enunciated the policy changes during the press conference.

  5. She struggled to enunciate the technical terms correctly.