Monologue

/ˈmɑːnəˌlɔːɡ/ noun

Definition

A monologue is a long speech given by one person, especially in a play, movie, or comedy show. It can reveal a character’s thoughts or be used for storytelling or jokes.

Etymology

From Greek “monologos,” meaning “speaking alone,” from “monos” (single) and “logos” (speech, word). It entered English through French and Latin.

Kelly Says

Monologue literally means ‘alone-speech,’ which is why it feels so intense—one voice taking over the whole sound space. Even on talk shows, the ‘opening monologue’ is really one person shaping the audience’s mood for everything that follows.

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