enunciation

American  

[ih-nuhn-see-ey-shuhn] / ɪˌnʌn siˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. an act or manner of enunciating.

2. utterance or pronunciation.

3. a formal announcement or statement.

   the enunciation of a doctrine.

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Other Word Forms

• nonenunciation
  noun
• reenunciation
  noun

Etymology

Origin of enunciation

First recorded in 1545–55, enunciation is from the Latin word ēnūntiātiōn- (stem of ēnūntiātiō ). See enunciate, -ion

Explanation

Enunciation is the act of pronouncing words. Make sure your enunciation is clear when ordering in a restaurant so you don’t get roasted lamb when you really wanted toast with jam. Enunciation is from the Latin word enuntiationem, meaning “declaration.” Enunciation is more than pronouncing words clearly; it’s expressing them well, too. No one would mutter a declaration! People with excellent enunciation (also known as diction) are likely to end up broadcasters, announcers, actors, or in other jobs that require public speaking. Politicians need to have good enunciation. People who mumble or speak too quickly have poor enunciation: it's hard to understand them, because their words slur together.

Example Sentences

Pope’s elegance of phrase already has a sense of chilliness; Mr. Clark’s forceful enunciation is true to the text but adds no warmth.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 10, 2026

Liz Benz still believes the distressed caller's voice was her son's -- the tone, enunciation and cadence all matched her 16-year-old.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

The stereotypical broadcast voice — also sometimes known as the General American accent — with its crystal-clear enunciation, lowered pitch and steady pacing, is the antithesis of the Valley accent.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 25, 2023

"Ashes of Laughter / The ghost is clear / Why do the best things always disappear," Helm sings with emotive enunciation of Robertson's mournful lyrics.

From Salon • Aug. 12, 2023

The laugh that is a little too loud; the enunciation a little too round; the gesture a little too generous.

From "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison