Exordium is a Latin word meaning the beginning or introductory part of a speech or text. The pronunciation of exordium is /ɛkˈsɔːrdiəm/ (ek-sawr-dee-uhm) which consists of 4 syllables. The first syllable "ek" is pronounced as in "echo", the second syllable "sawr" is pronounced as in "sore", the third syllable "dee" is pronounced as in "deepest" and the last syllable "uhm" is pronounced as in "um." The spelling of exordium is quite straightforward and is commonly used in academic and formal contexts.
Exordium is a noun that refers to the introductory part of a discourse or written piece, which serves to establish the background, context, or purpose of the subsequent content. Derived from Latin origins, exordium consists of the prefix "ex-" meaning "out of" or "from," and "ord-" which relates to "beginning" or "order." As such, exordium can be understood as a methodical or structured beginning to a composition.
In the realm of rhetoric, exordium serves as the opening section of a speech or argument, heavily focused on capturing the audience's attention and generating interest in the subject matter. It is often employed to create a strong first impression and establish the speaker's credibility, while providing an introduction to the topic being discussed.
In written works, such as essays or books, exordium functions as the initial section that lays the foundation for the reader's understanding and engagement with the subsequent content. It may include background information, an explanation of the purpose or significance of the work, or a captivating anecdote.
Overall, exordium encompasses the preliminary phase of communication, unveiling the fundamental aspects that guide the discourse. By setting the stage and arousing curiosity, exordium seeks to captivate the audience's attention and enable them to navigate through the stages of discourse with a solid grasp of the subject matter.
The introductory part of a discourse, or of a written composition; the opening part of an oration or speech.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word exordium derives from Latin, specifically from the combination of the prefix ex- meaning out or from and ordiri meaning to begin. Therefore, exordium literally translates to a beginning or to begin.