allocution

American  

[al-uh-kyoo-shuhn] / ˌæl əˈkyu ʃən /

noun

1. a formal speech, especially one of an incontrovertible or hortatory nature.

2. a pronouncement delivered by the pope to a secret consistory, especially on a matter of policy or of general importance.

---

allocution British  

/ ˌæləˈkjuːʃən /

noun

1. rhetoric a formal or authoritative speech or address, esp one that advises, informs, or exhorts

---

Etymology

Origin of allocution

1605–15; < Latin allocūtiōn- (stem of allocūtiō ), equivalent to allocūt ( us ), past participle of alloquī to speak to, address ( al- al- + locū- speak + -tus past participle suffix) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

The outlet reported that next month's hearing will involve an allocution, which will require them to answer questions "on the record" about the parenting plan for their 8-year-old daughter, Helen Grace.

From Fox News

“Care to be more specific? Redemption follow allocution,” she wrote.

From Seattle Times

In his allocution after pleading guilty, Mr. Cartagena said he struck the child to stop him from crying.

From New York Times

He offered a law professor’s allocution on the subject of foreign-born citizens’ eligibility for the American presidency.

From New York Times

Holmes can testify in each phase, or give an allocution statement, which would not be subject to cross-examination.

From Washington Times