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Meaning of ad-lib
The primary meaning of the word "ad-lib" is to improvise or speak spontaneously without prior preparation.
Etymology of ad-lib
The word "ad-lib" is short for the Latin phrase "ad libitum," which means "at one's pleasure" or "as one wishes."
It originated in the 17th century, initially used in music to indicate that a part of a composition could be performed at the discretion of the performer.
Over time, its usage expanded to other areas, including theater, public speaking, and everyday conversation.
Synonyms
improvise
extemporize
spontaneity
unscripted
unrehearsed
impromptu
offhand
off-the-cuff
unprepared
spontaneous
informal
casual
natural
unrestrained
free
easy
unguarded
unpremeditated
voluntary
willing
impulsive
whimsical
capricious
fanciful
arbitrary
random
haphazard
extempore
improvised
unscripted
ad-hoc
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "ad-lib" as speaking or acting without prior preparation, improvising, or doing something spontaneously.
- * It can also refer to the act of improvising lines or actions in a play, film, or other performance.
Usage Examples
- The comedian was known for his ability to ad-lib and come up with hilarious one-liners on the spot.
- * The actor had to ad-lib when she forgot her lines during the live performance.
- * The teacher encouraged her students to ad-lib and be creative in their role-playing exercise.