Rhetorician: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term when referring to someone who is exceptionally skilled in the art of rhetoric or persuasive speaking and writing. It often carries an academic or intellectual connotation.

• Aristotle is well-known as an ancient rhetorician whose works are still studied today.
• The university invited a famous rhetorician to give a lecture on classical rhetoric.

Choose this word to describe someone who is an exceptionally good public speaker, often with a focus on their ability to move or inspire an audience. Usually, this term has a grand or noble connotation.

• Martin Luther King Jr. is remembered as one of the greatest orators of the 20th century.
• The orator captivated the audience with his powerful speech and commanding presence.

This is a more general term suitable for any individual who is speaking in front of an audience, without necessarily implying a high level of skill or a particular context. It is a neutral term.

• The keynote speaker at the conference talked about the future of technology.
• As a speaker at the event, she shared her personal story to inspire others.

This term is suitable for describing someone who engages in formal arguments or structured discussions, often within settings like academic competitions or political debates.

• As a seasoned debater, she was able to dismantle her opponent's arguments with ease.
• During the school debate club meeting, each debater had to present their points on the given topic.