ventriloquism

noun

ven·​tril·​o·​quism ven-ˈtri-lə-ˌkwi-zəm 

1

: the production of the voice in such a way that the sound seems to come from a source other than the vocal organs of the speaker

2

: the expression of one's views and attitudes through another

especially : such expression by a writer through a fictional character or literary persona

ventriloquial

ˌven-trə-ˈlō-kwē-əl 

adjective

ventriloquially

ˌven-trə-ˈlō-kwē-ə-lē 

adverb

Examples of ventriloquism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This act of ventriloquism, so much more painfully proximate than Remy’s self-identification with Crusoe, proved immediately influential and lastingly controversial. —Glenn Adamson, Artforum, 1 June 2025

In an act of prime ministerial ventriloquism, Prime Minister Mark Carney had Charles deliver Canada’s throne speech, a ceremony in which elected politicians sit humbly in the presence of a ceremonial figurehead who reads words written by the politician who is actually in charge. —Stephen Maher, Time, 27 May 2025

This emotional ventriloquism is a big part of Mr. Cooper’s approach and appeal. —Joseph Bernstein, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025

At the same time, Scott’s act of mass ventriloquism—patient, playful, physically astute and ultimately brave—clarifies something at the heart of Chekhov’s play. —Sara Holdren, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

ventriloqu(ist) + -ism

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1