declamation

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the formal, forceful, or theatrical delivery of a speech

   The actor's declamation filled the hall without a microphone.

2. 2
   noun

   a speech or passage delivered as an exercise in rhetoric or elocution

   Each student prepared a declamation from a classical speech.

3. 3
   noun

   loud, impassioned rhetoric that is considered empty or excessive

   The essay substitutes angry declamation for evidence and analysis.

From French declamation and Latin declamatio, from declamare ('to practice public speaking, speak loudly'), formed from de- + clamare ('to cry out'). Ancient rhetorical training gave rise to the exercise sense; criticism of showy speech produced the pejorative sense.

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