recitations
|rec-i-ta-tions|
🇺🇸
/ˌrɛsɪˈteɪʃənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌrɛsɪˈteɪʃ(ə)nz/
(recitation)
oral presentation
Etymology
'recitation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'recitatio', where 'recitare' meant 'to read aloud or call out again' (from prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and root 'citare'/'citare' meaning 'to call or set in motion').
'recitation' changed from Medieval Latin 'recitatio' into Middle English (borrowed as 'recitation'), and eventually became the modern English word 'recitation'.
Initially, it meant 'a reading aloud' or 'calling out again,' but over time it evolved to include the senses 'oral performance, repetition from memory,' and 'an educational discussion/recital session.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of repeating aloud from memory, especially a poem, passage, or speech.
Her recitations of classic poems moved the audience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a class or session in which students recite, review, or discuss material (often as a supplement to a lecture).
Recitations often give students a chance to ask questions and work through problems.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/25 06:08