Narrator: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term when referring to someone who tells the story within books, movies, or other written narratives. The narrator provides the audience with a description of the events happening in the story.

• The narrator in the novel had a soothing voice.
• As the narrator explained the backstory, the audience was captivated.

Appropriate when talking about someone who engages people by telling stories, often in a captivating and entertaining manner. Storytellers are often seen in informal settings or performing arts.

• The storyteller at the campfire had everyone on the edge of their seats.
• Grandpa was the best storyteller; his tales were always so vivid.

Best suited for someone who is delivering a speech or lecture in front of an audience. It can also refer to the person speaking in a poem or a piece of writing.

• The speaker at the conference was very inspiring.
• In the poem, the speaker reflects on his childhood memories.

Used for someone who provides a voice in films, television, advertisements, or other media, where the voice is heard but the speaker is not seen.

• The voiceover in the documentary was clear and informative.
• She got a job doing voiceovers for animated movies.

Used when referring to the person who tells the story in a book, film, play, or other narrative work. It focuses on the technique of storytelling.

• The narrator of the novel has a first-person perspective.
• The film's narrator provided background information about each character.

Universal term for anyone who tells stories, whether orally, in writing, or through other media. It is broader and can refer to professional or casual contexts.

• Grandma was an amazing storyteller, enchanting us with fairy tales.
• The author is a masterful storyteller, weaving intricate plots and characters.

Suitable for describing someone who records events as they happen, often in a detailed and factual manner. This word is commonly used in historical or academic contexts.

• The chronicler documented the events of the medieval period meticulously.
• As a chronicler, she provided an accurate account of the city's history.

Best used to describe a person who is good at telling anecdotes in an engaging and entertaining way. This term often implies a charming or witty storytelling style.

• He was a gifted raconteur, captivating audiences with his tales.
• At the dinner party, the raconteur kept everyone laughing with his humorous stories.

A 'narrator' is typically used in the context of storytelling, literature, or documentaries. This person delivers the story or provides a descriptive account of events.

• The narrator of the novel speaks in a first-person perspective.
• The documentary featured a soft-spoken narrator who guided the audience through the historical events.

A 'commentator' offers opinions or analysis, often in real-time, during live events such as sports, news, or political debates.

• The football commentator analyzed the team's strategy in detail.
• The news commentator discussed the implications of the recent election results.

An 'announcer' is commonly used in broadcasting, such as radio or television, where the person introduces programs, presents information, or provides updates.

• The sports announcer excitedly described each play during the game.
• The radio announcer informed listeners about the upcoming weather forecast.

A 'presenter' is used in the context of providing information, hosting shows, or making speeches. They often serve as the face of a television program or a public event.

• The presenter welcomed the audience to the live show.
• She worked as a news presenter for the evening broadcast.