Stentorian: meaning, definitions and examples
📢
stentorian
[sten-ˈtōr-ē-ən ]
Definition
sound intensity
Stentorian refers to a voice that is extremely loud and powerful. The term is often used to describe someone who can project their voice over a great distance without strain. The word is derived from the name of the Greek herald Stentor, who is said to have had a voice as loud as that of fifty men. A stentorian voice can be demanding in nature, often commanding attention in any setting. This term is commonly applied in contexts like public speaking, announcements, or any situation requiring a strong vocal presence.
Synonyms
blaring, booming, loud, resounding, thundering.
Examples of usage
- The stentorian announcements echoed throughout the hall.
- He delivered his speech in a stentorian tone, captivating the audience.
- The stentorian voice of the teacher kept the students attentive.
- Her stentorian laughter could be heard across the park.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Derived from the name 'Stentor', a loud herald in Homer's 'Iliad', known for his strong voice.
- The term started being used in English around the 17th century to describe anyone with a very loud voice.
- The original Greek name 'Stentor' likely refers to the strength of his voice, which was said to be as loud as the combined voices of fifty men.
Literature
- In literature and theater, stentorian voices are often used by commanding characters, such as kings or generals, to assert authority.
- Authors sometimes use this adjective to enhance drama, making moments feel more impactful when characters speak boldly.
- Shakespeare’s works often feature stentorian characters, such as the boisterous Falstaff, known for his loud personality.
Pop Culture
- In modern media, a stentorian voice is often associated with powerful narrators in documentaries or dramatic voiceovers in films.
- Many famous actors, such as James Earl Jones, are noted for their stentorian tones, enhancing the gravitas of their performances.
- Animated characters with stentorian voices often serve as authoritative figures, like rulers or mentors in children's shows.
Communication
- In public speaking, a stentorian voice is seen as a vital asset for engaging an audience and commanding attention.
- Voice training often emphasizes projection techniques to develop a stentorian quality for those in leadership or performance roles.
- Some vocal techniques can enhance volume without straining the vocal cords, ensuring a healthy stentorian voice.
Psychology
- A loud speaking style can influence perceptions of confidence and authority, affecting listener engagement and trust.
- Stentorian voices may evoke strong emotional responses, making communicators more persuasive in debates or discussions.
- Psychological studies suggest that individuals gravitate towards those with commanding voices, associating volume with strength and leadership.
Translations
Translations of the word "stentorian" in other languages:
🇵🇹 estentóreo
🇮🇳 गर्जनशील
🇩🇪 stentorianisch
🇮🇩 stentorian
🇺🇦 стенторіальний
🇵🇱 stentoriański
🇯🇵 ステントリアン
🇫🇷 stentorien
🇪🇸 estentóreo
🇹🇷 stentoryan
🇰🇷 스텐토리안
🇸🇦 صوت جهير
🇨🇿 stentoriánský
🇸🇰 stentoriánsky
🇨🇳 洪亮的
🇸🇮 stentoričen
🇮🇸 stentórískur
🇰🇿 стенторлық
🇬🇪 სტენტორიული
🇦🇿 stentorian
🇲🇽 estentóreo