Pronunciation: [ˈɒɹətəɹˌi] (IPA) 
Oratory is a noun meaning a formal public speech. The spelling "oratory" is pronounced as /ˈɔːrətəri/. The first syllable "or" is pronounced as "awr" with the vowel sound /ɔː/. The second syllable "a" is pronounced as "uh" with the vowel sound /ə/. The third syllable "to" is pronounced as "taw" with the consonant sound /t/. The fourth syllable "ry" is pronounced as "ree" with the vowel sound /ri/. The stress is on the first syllable.
Oratory refers to the art or skill of delivering speeches or public addresses, often with eloquence, persuasion, and impact. It encompasses the ability to express ideas or convey a message effectively in a spoken form to captivate an audience, usually in a formal setting.
In its historical context, oratory played a significant role in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was considered a fundamental part of education and civic engagement. It was a revered skill possessed by leaders, politicians, philosophers, and advocates who aimed to influence public opinion, shape political decisions, or rally support for various causes.
The practice of oratory involves meticulous preparation and organization of ideas, employing rhetoric techniques such as figurative language, emphasis, pacing, and persuasive appeals like ethos (ethical), pathos (emotional), and logos (logical). It also demands the effective use of voice projection, modulation, gestures, and body language to enhance the delivery and impact of the speech.
Oratory serves as a powerful means of communication, seeking to captivate, inspire, and persuade, drawing the attention and interest of the audience. Through its diverse forms, including political speeches, sermons, debates, or lectures, oratory has the potential to shape public discourse, initiate social change, foster understanding, and motivate actions.
• The art of speaking in public in a pleasing and effective style; an exercise of eloquence.
• The art of an orator-see under oration.
• Among R. Caths., a place or chapel allotted for prayer.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "oratory" comes from the Latin word "oratorium", which is derived from "orare", meaning "to speak" or "to pray". The term originally referred to a place of prayer or a religious assembly, particularly in ancient Rome. Over time, it gained the meaning of a public speaking or eloquence, which led to the modern usage of "oratory" to describe the art of effective speaking or the skill of delivering speeches.
