ad-libber
|ad/lib/ber|
C1
🇺🇸
/ædˈlɪbər/
🇬🇧
/ædˈlɪbə/
(ad-lib)
improvised speech
Etymology
Etymology Information
'ad-lib' originates from Latin, specifically the phrase 'ad libitum,' where 'ad' meant 'to' and 'libitum' meant 'pleasure.'
Historical Evolution
'ad libitum' transformed into the English phrase 'ad-lib,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ad-libber.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'at one's pleasure,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to improvise or speak without preparation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who improvises or speaks without preparation.
The comedian was a skilled ad-libber, always ready with a quick joke.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/21 12:51