Main Entry: ora·tion

Pronunciation: \ə-ˈrā-shən, ȯ-\

Function: noun

Etymology: Latin oration-, oratio speech, oration, from orare to plead, speak, pray; akin to Hittite ariya- to consult an oracle and perhaps to Greek ara prayer

Date: 1502

: an elaborate discourse delivered in a formal and dignified manner