Report

Definition

The word "report" can mean (1) a spoken or written account that presents information or findings (noun), (2) official or formal documentation of events or research (noun), (3) the sound of an explosion or gunshot (noun, specialized), or (4) to give an account of something observed, discovered, or investigated (verb). As a verb it also means to present oneself officially or to be accountable to an authority.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈpɔrt/
• Respelling: ri-PORT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈpɔːt/
• Respelling: ri-PAWT

Etymology

"Report" entered Middle English (late 14th century) from Old French reporter (“to carry back”), ultimately from Latin reportāre—re- “back” + portāre “to carry.” The noun developed from the verb soon afterward.

Derivatives

• Reporter (noun)
• Reportage (noun)
• Reporting (noun / present participle)
• Reportorial (adjective)
• Misreport (verb)

Synonyms

• Account
• Statement
• Record
• Document
• Narrative

Antonyms

• Concealment
• Suppression
• Silence
• Withholding

Usage

"Report" appears in journalism, business, academia, and military contexts. Examples: "The auditor’s report highlighted key discrepancies," or "All employees must report to headquarters by 0900 hours."

Related Terms

• Journalism: The profession of gathering and disseminating reports.
• Documentation: Written evidence or records.
• Briefing: A concise summary of important information.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A written or spoken account presenting information or findings:
  • Example: "The committee released its final report on climate policy."
• An official or formal document detailing events or research:
  • Example: "Scientists published a report on the new vaccine’s efficacy."
• The loud, sharp sound of an explosion or gunshot:
  • Example: "They heard the report of rifles in the distance."

Verb

• To give a formal or official account of something observed or investigated:
  • Example: "Witnesses must report any suspicious activity to the police."
• To present oneself or be present at a designated place:
  • Example: "New recruits are required to report for duty on Monday."
• To be described or rumored (passive construction):
  • Example: "The CEO is reported to be stepping down next quarter."