Oratory Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oratory

[ˈɔːrətɔːri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

public speaking

The art or skill of speaking in public formally and eloquently.

Synonyms

eloquence, public speaking, rhetoric.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
oratory	Used when referring to the art of formal public speaking, often with a focus on style rather than content. His oratory skills won him many admirers. The senator was praised for his powerful oratory during the debate.
public speaking	General term for speaking in front of an audience. Commonly used in educational or professional contexts. Public speaking can be intimidating for many people. He took a course to improve his public speaking skills.
rhetoric	Refers to the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, often with a focus on technique but can carry a negative connotation if it lacks sincerity or substance. The politician's rhetoric was criticized for being empty and manipulative. She was a master of rhetoric and could sway any audience.
eloquence	Used to describe fluent, persuasive, and graceful speaking or writing. Typically seen as positive and complimentary. Her eloquence impressed everyone at the conference. The poet's eloquence captured the emotions of the audience.

Examples of usage

His oratory captivated the audience at the conference.
She was known for her powerful oratory during political debates.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

historical

A place of prayer, especially a small private chapel.

Synonyms

chapel, prayer room, sanctuary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
oratory	An oratory can refer to a small private chapel or a place designed for prayer, often associated with someone's home or a private institution. He retired to his private oratory to pray. The mansion had a beautiful oratory full of stained glass windows.
chapel	A chapel is a small place of worship, it might be part of a larger church or a standalone building often found in institutions like schools, hospitals, or prisons. They held the wedding in the school's chapel. The chapel at the hospital is open to all patients and staff.
sanctuary	A sanctuary refers to a sacred place or a room within a church or temple where people go to worship or find solace. It can also mean a place of safety or refuge, with a connotation of protection and peace. The cathedral's sanctuary is a place of peace and reflection. During the storm, many people found sanctuary in the community center.
prayer room	A prayer room is a dedicated space specifically for the purpose of prayer, usually found in public or semi-public places like offices, airports, or schools to accommodate people of different faiths. The airport has a prayer room for travelers. The office building has a prayer room for employees.

Examples of usage

The oratory in the castle was a peaceful sanctuary for the royal family.
She found solace in the oratory, where she could reflect in quietude.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'oratory'

The word 'oratory' has its roots in the Latin word 'oratorius', which means 'pertaining to speaking'. It originally referred to the art of public speaking and persuasion. Over time, the term also came to be used to describe a place of prayer or worship, particularly in historical contexts. The concept of oratory has been a significant aspect of human communication and expression throughout history, with orators playing key roles in shaping opinions and influencing decisions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,848, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13845 filth
13846 outburst
13847 obsessed
13848 oratory
13849 spanning
13850 armistice
13851 insecure
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