pep talk

American  

noun

1. a vigorous, emotional talk, as to a person or group, intended to arouse enthusiasm, increase determination to succeed, etc..

   The coach gave the team a pep talk before the game.

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pep talk British  

noun

1. informal an enthusiastic talk designed to increase confidence, production, cooperation, etc

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Etymology

Origin of pep talk

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pep talk

As he left, Turner gave a brief faith-laced pep talk for a group of young Dream Center residents in the audience.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 12, 2026

After the win against Qatar, Carney gave the team a pep talk in the Vancouver stadium locker room.

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026

The message is more a reminder than a pep talk.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 13, 2026

Nick Halic and his young son giving pep talk to one of the few seniors on Birmingham Charles Eleri after loss.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 13, 2026

I give myself a pep talk in the mirror to remind myself I need to be strong.

From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman