Dictionary of Professional Speaking Terms
General Speaking & Presentation Terms
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Keynote: A primary speech that sets the tone for an event.
Breakout Session: A smaller, focused presentation within a larger event.
Workshop: An interactive, hands-on session.
Panel Discussion: Multiple speakers discussing a topic, usually moderated.
Fireside Chat: Informal conversational-style presentation.
MC (Master of Ceremonies): Host who guides the flow of an event.
Facilitator: A person who guides group discussions or workshops.
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Delivery & Performance Terms
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Articulation: Clear and precise pronunciation.
Cadence: The rhythm and flow of speech.
Projection: Controlling voice volume so it carries across the room.
Inflection: Variation in pitch and tone for emphasis.
Pacing: The speed at which you speak.
Pause (Strategic Silence): Intentional silence to add emphasis or allow ideas to land.
Stage Presence: The speaker’s overall energy, confidence, and impact on stage.
Body Language: Nonverbal communication through gestures, posture, and facial expressions.
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Rhetoric & Persuasion
Terms​
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Ethos: Establishing credibility and trust.
Pathos: Appealing to emotions.
Logos: Using logic and evidence to persuade.
Hook: An opening designed to grab attention.
Call to Action (CTA): A direct invitation for the audience to act.
Storytelling: Using narrative to make ideas relatable and memorable.
Analogy: Comparing two things to explain or clarify.
Repetition: Reusing key words/phrases for emphasis and memorability.
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Visual & Technical​
Terms
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Deck: Slideshow presentation (e.g., PowerPoint, Keynote).
Slide Design: The layout and visual elements of slides.
Clicker (Remote): Device to advance presentation slides.
Teleprompter: Screen showing prepared text for the speaker.
AV (Audio-Visual): Technical setup for sound, lighting, and visuals.
Handouts: Printed or digital takeaways for the audience.
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Audience Engagement
Terms
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Icebreaker: An activity or opening statement to warm up the audience.
Rhetorical Question: A question asked for effect, not an actual answer.
Polling: Asking the audience to vote/show hands/respond digitally.
Interactive Exercise: Activity that directly involves participants.
Feedback Loop: The back-and-forth exchange with an audience.
Applause Line: A moment designed to prompt audience applause or reaction.
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Professional Speaker Industry Terms​​
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Speaker Reel: A highlight video showcasing a speaker’s style.
Speaker Bureau: An agency that books professional speakers.
Honorarium: A payment made to a speaker (often not a full fee).
Back-of-Room Sales (BOR): Selling books or products after a talk.
One-Sheet: A marketing flyer summarizing a speaker’s expertise.
RFP (Request for Proposal): A formal request for a speaker proposal from event organizers.
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