What does enunciator mean?
An enunciator is a person who enunciates — either someone who pronounces words with unusual clarity, or, less commonly, one who formally states or proclaims ideas, doctrines, or announcements. The word derives from the Latin verb enuntiare, meaning to speak out or declare, formed from ex- ('out') plus nuntiare ('to announce'). In modern usage it most often describes speakers prized for their diction: broadcasters, actors, lecturers, and public figures whose careful articulation makes them easy to understand. It can also carry a slightly loftier sense, describing a thinker or leader as the enunciator of a principle or policy. The word is formal and somewhat rare in casual conversation, but it is useful precisely because no shorter synonym captures both senses — clear speech and authoritative statement — in a single term.
nounA person or device that enunciates; one who pronounces words clearly or who formally states or announces something.
- A person who pronounces words distinctly and clearly
- A person or thing that formally states, declares, or announces something (now rare)
"A skilled enunciator, the newsreader never slurred a syllable even when reading at speed."
"As an enunciator she was impeccable, shaping each vowel so that even listeners at the back of the hall followed every word."
"The philosopher was remembered chiefly as an enunciator of principles that others later turned into policy."
Standard plural; used when referring to multiple speakers known for clear diction or formal declaration.
"Great orators have often been careful enunciators as well."
Every great broadcaster is secretly an enunciator first — the word literally means 'one who announces out of' the noise.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of enunciator
Enunciator comes from the Latin enuntiatus, past participle of enuntiare, meaning 'to speak out, declare', from ex- ('out') and nuntiare ('to announce'), itself related to nuntius ('messenger'). English borrowed the word via the verb enunciate, which entered the language in the early 17th century, with enunciator following shortly after. Cognates include enunciation, renounce (from Latin renuntiare), and annunciate (from Latin adnuntiare), all built on the same root nuntiare.
Related word forms
How enunciator is actually used
Somewhat formal and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. Most often used of speakers known for clear diction — broadcasters, actors, teachers — or, more rarely, of someone who articulates ideas or doctrines.
Easily confused with enunciator
An enunciator states or pronounces something clearly, whereas a denunciator publicly condemns or accuses someone.