recitation

noun

rec·​i·​ta·​tion ˌre-sə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce recitation (audio)
1
: the act of enumerating
a recitation of relevant details
2
: the act or an instance of reading or repeating aloud especially publicly
3
a
: a student's oral reply to questions
b
: a class period especially in association with and for review of a lecture

Examples of recitation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The exec’s recitation appeared to surprise even his longtime colleagues on the video call. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 17 July 2025 The application, the discipline, the serenity from the recitation of the daimoku helped Baggio overcome. James Horncastle, New York Times, 30 June 2025 Foods of symbolic significance are consumed, while prayers and traditional recitations are performed. Chris Sims, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Howell walked out of the room when approached by officers, while another group of protestors then stood and picked up the recitation. Melissa Brown, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for recitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of recitation was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Recitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recitation. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

recitation

noun
rec·​i·​ta·​tion ˌres-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce recitation (audio)
1
: a complete telling or listing of something
2
: the act or an instance of reading or repeating aloud especially before an audience
3
: a student's oral reply to questions

More from Merriam-Webster on recitation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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