public-address system

[puhb-lik-uh-dres]

noun

1. a combination of electronic devices that makes sound audible via loudspeakers to many people, as in an auditorium or out of doors.

public-address system

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: PA system. a system of one or more microphones, amplifiers, and loudspeakers for increasing the sound level of speech or music, used in auditoriums, public gatherings, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of public-address system¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

When a warning on the public-address system about streaking was followed by a bare-chested Philly Phanatic running across the outfield before the sixth inning, they offered no reaction.

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Just as we returned to the press box, the next hitter was announced over the public-address system: “Shohei Ohtani!”

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After completing his warmup pitches with Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls on Parade” blaring on the Dodger Stadium public-address system, Buehler went into his windup with the signature high leg-kick and fired his first pitch, a 96-mph fastball, by Miami leadoff hitter Jazz Chisholm Jr. for strike one.

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But then a disembodied voice wafted soothingly over the public-address system.

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Pop music blared from the public-address system through the entire game, even when pitches were about to be thrown.

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Related Words

• bullhorn 
• megaphone