DictionaryaddressSpeaking to others
noun / verb

address

Speaking directly to a person or audience.

The principal addresses the students in the assembly hall.

Etymology

Old French adresser meant to direct. In speaking, the thing directed is one’s words, and the address identifies speech aimed at a particular listener or audience.

More examples

  • Her opening address lasted ten minutes.
  • He addressed his remarks to the entire committee.
  • She has addressed audiences in several countries.

Forms

address · addresses · addressed · addressing

Similar words

speak
Broader; does not specify directing remarks to an audience.
deliver
Takes the speech itself, rather than its audience, as object.