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Teleprompter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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teleprompter

[ˈtɛlɪˌprɒmptə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

broadcast equipment

A teleprompter is a device used in television and public speaking that displays a script in front of a speaker. This allows the speaker to read the text while looking directly at the audience or camera, creating an engaging and natural presentation. Teleprompters are commonly used by news anchors, politicians, and speakers at large events. They help minimize distractions and maintain eye contact, ensuring effective communication. The technology can vary from basic models to advanced systems with features like scrolling text and adjustable speeds.

Synonyms

auto-cue, prompter, script display.

Examples of usage

  • The news anchor read the script from the teleprompter.
  • During the speech, the politician relied on the teleprompter for guidance.
  • The director adjusted the teleprompter for the speaker's preferences.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • Teleprompters revolutionized television news in the 1950s by allowing anchors to maintain eye contact with viewers.
  • Before teleprompters, news anchors had to memorize scripts or read from papers, which made presentations harder.

Pop Culture

  • Many famous speeches, including those by political leaders, have utilized teleprompters to ensure smooth delivery.
  • In movies and TV shows, characters sometimes jokingly mess up lines from the teleprompter, showing the stress of live speaking.

Technology

  • Modern teleprompters can be operated remotely, allowing flexibility in their placement relative to the camera.
  • With advances in technology, teleprompters now often include features like scrolling speed adjustments and script editing capabilities.

Psychology

  • Using a teleprompter can help reduce anxiety for speakers because it provides guidance on what to say next.
  • Studies suggest that reading from a teleprompter can improve speech delivery by enhancing clarity and pace.

Origin of 'teleprompter'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'teleprompter' comes from 'tele', meaning distant or remote, and 'prompter', which refers to someone who helps another with their lines.
  • The term was first used in the early 1950s when the device was invented to assist speakers on television.

The word 'teleprompter' is a portmanteau of 'tele' meaning 'distant' from Greek and 'prompter' derived from the Latin 'promptus' meaning 'ready' or 'on hand'. The invention of the teleprompter dates back to the late 1950s when it was developed by a team led by the television producer Hubert M. Schlafly Jr. Working on the production of a live television show, Schlafly realized that a device to display scripts could significantly improve the presentation for speakers. Prior to the teleprompter, speakers often memorized their lines or read from paper scripts, which could be distracting. The teleprompter has since evolved with technology, becoming essential in modern broadcasting and public speaking.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,684, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.