Raconteur: meaning, definitions and examples

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raconteur

 

[ˌræk.ɒnˈtɜːr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

storyteller

A raconteur is a person who is skilled at telling stories in an entertaining and engaging way. They have the ability to captivate an audience with their words and keep them interested from start to finish.

Synonyms

anecdotalist, narrator, storyteller.

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Word Description / Examples
raconteur

Similar to raconteur, this term also describes someone who tells anecdotes well. However, it often emphasizes charm and a flair for holding an audience's attention.

  • As a raconteur, Maria had the ability to make even ordinary events sound fascinating
storyteller

Refers to anyone who tells stories, whether they are real or fictional. The term is broad and can apply to casual settings or professional contexts.

  • The campfire storyteller shared eerie tales that kept everyone on the edge of their seats
narrator

Describes a person in charge of delivering the narrative in a story, book, film, or play. The term is neutral and functional.

  • The narrator of the documentary explained the complex history in simple terms
anecdotalist

Refers to someone who often shares short, personal stories or anecdotes, usually to illustrate a point or entertain.

  • She was known as the best anecdotalist in the family, always having a funny story to share at gatherings

Examples of usage

  • He was known as the best raconteur in the village, always drawing a crowd with his tales of adventure.
  • The famous author was not only a talented writer, but also a gifted raconteur who could bring his characters to life through storytelling.

Translations

Translations of the word "raconteur" in other languages:

🇵🇹 narrador

🇮🇳 कथावाचक

🇩🇪 Erzähler

🇮🇩 pendongeng

🇺🇦 оповідач

🇵🇱 gawędziarz

🇯🇵 語り手 (かたりて)

🇫🇷 raconteur

🇪🇸 narrador

🇹🇷 hikayeci

🇰🇷 이야기꾼

🇸🇦 راوي

🇨🇿 vypravěč

🇸🇰 rozprávač

🇨🇳 讲故事的人 (jiǎng gùshì de rén)

🇸🇮 pripovedovalec

🇮🇸 sögumaður

🇰🇿 әңгімеші

🇬🇪 მოთხრობილი

🇦🇿 hekayəçi

🇲🇽 narrador

Etymology

The word 'raconteur' originated from French, where 'raconter' means 'to tell'. It first appeared in English in the late 18th century, borrowed from the French language. The term became popular in literary circles to describe someone with a talent for storytelling.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,866 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.