oratory
UK: ˈɒr.ə.tər.i | US: ˈɔːr.ə.tɔːr.i
n. the art or skill of public speaking
n. a small chapel or room for private worship
The word "oratory" derives from the Latin oratorium (a place of prayer) and orator (speaker), rooted in orare (to speak, pray). The morpheme "orat" preserves the core meaning of speech or prayer, while "-ory" evolved into a suffix indicating either a place (e.g., chapel) or an art form (e.g., public speaking). This dual meaning reflects its historical use in religious contexts (private prayer rooms) and secular contexts (eloquent speech).
His brilliant oratory captivated the audience.
The monastery included a quiet oratory for meditation.
She studied classical oratory to improve her debates.
The politician’s oratory skills won him widespread support.
The castle’s oratory was adorned with stained glass.