What does encoring mean?
“Encoring” is the present participle and gerund of the verb “encore,” meaning to call for an additional performance by shouting or otherwise demanding one, or — less commonly — to perform extra pieces in response to such demands. The word derives from the French interjection “encore,” which means “again” or “still,” and was adopted into English theatrical vocabulary in the seventeenth century, when audiences began using the French cry to request a repeat. In modern usage, “encore” functions most naturally as a noun (“an encore”), so the verbal form “encoring” appears mainly in descriptive or journalistic writing about live performance, evoking enthusiasm, applause, and the warm rapport between artist and audience. It conveys sustained appreciation rather than polite approval.
To call out “encore” or otherwise urge a performer to give an additional, repeat performance.
"Delighted by the soprano's aria, the audience went on encoring for several minutes."
(Of a performer) To give additional performances in response to repeated audience demands.
"She obliged the crowd by encoring with two of her best-known songs."
When you shout “encore!”, you're speaking French without realizing it — literally asking for “some more.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of encoring
The word traces to the French adverb and interjection “encore,” meaning “again” or “still,” which entered English during the seventeenth century as a theatrical exclamation used by audiences requesting a repeat performance. Its ultimate origin within French is debated, though it has been connected to Vulgar Latin expressions involving time or repetition. As English usage developed, “encore” expanded beyond its interjectional role into noun and verb forms, with “encoring” arising as its progressive form.
Related word forms
How encoring is actually used
The verb “encore” and its participle “encoring” are relatively rare compared to the noun “encore”; English speakers more often use phrasings like “called for an encore” or “played an encore.” When used verbally, it carries a lively, theatrical register suited to reviews and concert reporting.
Easily confused with encoring
“Encoring” means calling for a repeat performance, while “encounter” means to meet or come across someone or something.