speaker

UK: ˈspiːkə | US: ˈspiːkər

Definition

  1. n. a person who speaks or delivers a speech

  2. n. a device that converts electrical signals into sound

  3. n. (in parliamentary contexts) the presiding officer of a legislative assembly

Structure
speak <to talk>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "speaker" originates from Old English specan (later "speak"), meaning "to talk," combined with the agentive suffix -er, which denotes "one who does." Over time, it evolved to describe both people who address audiences and devices that produce sound. The parliamentary sense emerged in the 14th century, referring to the person who "speaks for" a deliberative body.

Examples

  1. The keynote speaker captivated the audience with her insights.

  2. The Bluetooth speaker delivers high-quality audio.

  3. The Speaker of the House called for order during the debate.

  4. She is a fluent Spanish speaker.

  5. The conference featured speakers from diverse industries.