Definition of dictionnext
1
as in articulation
the clear and accurate pronunciation of words especially in public speaking Shakespearean actors with very good diction

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in language
the way in which something is put into words the spare diction that is the hallmark of the poetry of Robert Frost

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of diction The spice that makes this dish work is Carl's precious decor and fussiness about keeping the place impeccable, communicated with exquisite diction by the burly Scales. Jim Higgins, jsonline.com, 27 Oct. 2025 The nearly 6-foot actor was made to look a foot shorter; given a balding, combover haircut; and was forced to adopt a completely new diction and set of mannerisms. Max Gao, NBC news, 18 Oct. 2025 The first three were post-dictions of inflation; the latter four were predictions that had not yet been observed when they were made. Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 23 Sep. 2025 Raised in the Highbridge section of the Bronx not far from where DJ Kool Herc threw the 1973 party revered as rap music’s spiritual baby shower, Cardi bookends those songs with experiments in accentuating and contrasting her distinctly New York diction. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for diction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for diction
Noun
  • This quiet, nuanced articulation of nonbinary experience is one of the book’s many strengths.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 12 Mar. 2026
  • The most recent entry is this really cool Piranha Plant, which when assembled stands over nine inches high when fully assembled, with a ton of articulation, including a mouth that opens and closes, poseable leaves, and moveable stalk.
    K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 10 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • If a conversation thread gets confusing, rewrite the key points in plain language.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 17 Mar. 2026
  • Trump has also asked that Republicans tack on language restricting transgender surgeries and transgender participation in women’s sports — two policies that Republicans successfully used as a political wedge against Democrats in the last election cycle.
    David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 17 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Republicans are instead taking over the floor with their own speeches, proceeding under regular order but operating outside the normal time limits that are customary when debating legislation.
    DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFF FROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 18 Mar. 2026
  • In their concession speeches Tuesday night, both Krishnamoorthi and Kelly acknowledged Pritzker’s influence on the outcome.
    Dan Petrella, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • But the wording of the memo leaves open the door to detain anyone who has not yet had their application approved.
    Ashley Sanchez, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2026
  • Before closing arguments, the judge and attorneys will finalize the wording of instructions for the jury to follow during its deliberation, including whether there will be a reference to antifa in the jury charge.
    Emerson Clarridge Updated March 11, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Moira was a constant scene-stealer, with her over-the-top outfits and unique enunciation.
    Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026
  • But the tunefulness and, well, enunciation showcased on his third album, Jump Out, are equally related to Chicago drill melodicists like Sicko Mobb, and closer in content and delivery to emo-rap crooners and the hazy absurdism of the Pack than rage.
    Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • Current formulations of the drug also persist in the bloodstream for long periods, which can have unintended consequences.
    Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Even if a fragrance features those winning base notes that Morgan outlined, a formulation that relies heavily on synthetics or alcohols may be a red flag for smelling cheap.
    Alexis Berger, StyleCaster, 16 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • As Hathaway spoke about the importance of costume design, Wintour looked about the audience with a sort of bored expression before putting on her signature sunglasses.
    Sam Reed, Glamour, 16 Mar. 2026
  • The poignant Moon spins into your 5th House of Drama, inspiring hands-on expression that reconnects you with your inner child.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 16 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Diction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diction. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on diction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster