public speaking

American  

noun

1. the act of delivering speeches in public.

2. the art or skill of addressing an audience effectively.

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public speaking British  

noun

1. the art or practice of making speeches to large audiences

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Other Word Forms

• public speaker
  noun

Etymology

Origin of public speaking

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

public speaking

If you enjoy presenting, but are often assigned written reports, make it clear that one of your strengths is public speaking and that you’d like to do it more.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 22, 2026

If Wagner’s job seems to require an unusual combination of skills—mastery of fluid dynamics, comfort with public speaking, strong pint tolerance—he comes by them honestly.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 19, 2026

Off-screen, Chapin was an evangelist who shared her faith through public speaking, ministry and outreach, according to her website.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 25, 2026

Using notes is discouraged in the world of public speaking.

From BBC ● Nov. 16, 2025

Mark Antony had studied public speaking in Athens as a young man and had developed a keen appreciation for the Greek customs practiced throughout the region.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby