Oral

Definition

Oral pertains to the mouth or is communicated by speech rather than writing.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɔrəl/
• Respelling: OR-uhl (with "OR" as in "or," and "uhl" as in "hull")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɔːrəl/
• Respelling: OR-uhl (similar to American English, with "OR" as in "or," and "uhl" as in "hull")

In both dialects, "oral" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "OR." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "OR-uhl."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "os" (genitive "oris"), meaning "mouth". The term "oral" has been used in English since the late 16th century, initially in reference to things of, or pertaining to, the mouth, and later, in the 17th century, to mean "spoken" rather than "written".

Derivatives

• Orally (adverb form)
• Oralness (noun indicating the quality of being oral)
• Oral cavity (the hollow space inside the mouth)
• Oral tradition (a method of preserving knowledge and stories passed down by word of mouth)
• Oral hygiene (the practice of maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums)

Synonyms

• Verbal
• Vocal
• Spoken

Antonyms

• Written
• Silent
• Nonverbal

Usage

"Oral" can refer to things associated with the mouth or to matters communicated through speech.

• The patient underwent an oral examination to check for cavities.
• The student will have an oral presentation next week.
• Some cultures have rich oral traditions and stories passed down through generations.

Related Terms

• Mouth
• Speech
• Dialogue
• Verbal communication

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Related to the Mouth: Of or pertaining to the mouth or oral cavity.‍
• Example: He had good oral hygiene practices, brushing and flossing daily.

• Spoken, Not Written: Communicated through spoken words as opposed to written form.‍
• Example: She preferred oral communication over sending emails.

• Of Verbal Examination: Relating to a test or examination in which the candidate answers questions in speech.‍
• Example: He was preparing for his oral exams in French.

Noun

• A Spoken Examination or Test: A test in which the candidate answers questions verbally.‍
• Example: Jane passed her Spanish oral with flying colors.