speaker

noun

speak·​er ˈspē-kər 

1

a

: one that speaks

especially : one who uses a language

native speakers of French

b

: one who makes a public speech

c

: one who acts as a spokesperson

2

: the presiding officer of a deliberative assembly

Speaker of the House of Representatives

3

: loudspeaker

speakership

ˈspē-kər-ˌship 

noun

Synonyms

• chair
• chairman
• chairperson
• moderator
• president
• presider
• prolocutor

Examples of speaker in a Sentence

I disagree with the last speaker.

He is an excellent public speaker.

Recent Examples on the Web

Against a dampened economy, geopolitical turmoil and global disruptions, sustainability is even more key for the sector’s survival, competitive advantage and resilience, speakers agreed. —Martino Carrera, WWD, 25 Oct. 2024

The event ended with blend of mingling between the audience and that evening’s speakers, snacks and individual self-care bags provided by Stephenson’s GLAM4GOOD. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 25 Oct. 2024

Keynote speakers will include Harvey's own Keke Palmer, chef Anne Burrell and comedian Loni Love. —Analis Bailey, Axios, 24 Oct. 2024

Optimism Most speakers expressed cautious optimism. —Larry Magid, The Mercury News, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing speaker

• guest speaker
• keynote speaker
• native speaker
• public speaker

Kids Definition

speaker

noun

speak·​er ˈspē-kər 

1

: a person who speaks

2

: a person who conducts a meeting (as of a legislature)

3

: loudspeaker

Legal Definition

speaker

noun

speak·​er

often capitalized

: the presiding officer of a deliberative assembly

Speaker of the House