recitation

Everyday

1. A recitation is saying a poem, speech or piece of writing aloud from memory, often in front of an audience. tree →
2. A recitation can also be a long spoken list of facts or events, said one after another. tree →
3. (church) Recitation of a prayer or psalm means saying it aloud, often together. tree →

In the lessons

In English lessons and school assemblies, poetry recitation helps pupils learn rhythm and speak clearly; there are recitation competitions. In church, the congregation joins in the recitation of the Lord's Prayer. In older stories children did recitations for visitors. In religious life, recitation of the Quran is also a skilled art.

Examples

• She won a prize for her recitation of a poem by Christina Rossetti. tree →
• Every pupil did a short recitation at the assembly. tree →
• The recitation of the Lord's Prayer ended the service. tree →
• His recitation of the times tables was fast and perfect. tree →
• Grandpa gave a long recitation of all his old football results. tree →
• We practised the recitation until we knew every word. tree →
• Poetry recitation helps you speak with expression. tree →

Note

Countable: a recitation, recitations. Verb: recite. A "recital" is usually a music or dance performance; a recitation is spoken words.