Stentorian: meaning, definitions and examples

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stentorian

 

[ sten-ˈtōr-ē-ən ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

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.

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

Word origin

The word 'stentorian' comes from the name of Stentor, a character in Homer's 'Iliad'. Stentor was a herald of the Achaeans during the Trojan War and was noted for his unusually powerful voice. According to the myth, when the Greeks struggled to communicate in battle, Stentor could be heard shouting orders to the troops from a considerable distance. His loud voice became legendary, and the term 'stentorian' was subsequently coined to describe anything that is remarkably loud. Over time, the term has been integrated into the English language and is commonly used in various contexts, particularly in literature and public speaking, to convey the idea of a forceful vocal presence.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,927 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.