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

“This country was founded in response to a monarchy. And the Constitution is a document of limitations — frequent limitations — and enunciation of rights.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2026

The whiplash between bitter and sweet is arresting, but Ms. Lindsey’s velvety mezzo is never less than beautiful, and her enunciation of German, English and French texts is impeccably crisp.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025

After some initial hesitation, Grace realizes she has nothing to lose and takes to the stage, ready to give the song her best Gerard Way, full-throated glottal enunciation.

From Salon • May 17, 2025

Late in the meeting, lead pronouncer Jacques Bailly and his colleagues — so measured in their pacing and meticulous in their enunciation during the bee — rip through that chore as quickly as possible.

From Washington Times • May 29, 2023

Her enunciation was flawless as she spoke with such reverent clarity that it seemed like she was speaking the words for the first time.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy