Definition

Noun: 1. The concluding part of a speech: In rhetoric, a peroration is the final section of an oration, designed to summarize the argument and stir the emotions of the audience. 2. A lengthy and grandiloquent speech: It can also refer to a speech that is overly elaborate, formal, and rhetorical in style.

Usage

The word "peroration" is primarily used in formal or academic contexts, especially when discussing public speaking, debate, classical rhetoric, or literary analysis. It often carries a slightly critical connotation when used to describe a speech as being pompous or unnecessarily long.

Examples

1. (As a speech's conclusion)

   • The senator's peroration was so powerful that it earned a standing ovation.
   • A good peroration should recapitulate the main points and leave a lasting impression.

2. (As a grandiloquent speech)

   • We had to sit through a long peroration on the virtues of patience.
   • His reply was not an answer but a fiery peroration.

Advanced Usage

• "To deliver a peroration": This phrase emphasizes the act of giving the concluding part of a formal speech.
  • The lawyer prepared to deliver her final peroration to the jury.

Variants and Related Words

• Perorate (verb): To speak at length, especially in a formal, grand manner.
  • He perorated on the topic for nearly an hour.

Synonyms

• Conclusion (for the first meaning): The end or finish of a speech.
• Summation: A summary, especially one given by a judge or lawyer.
• Recapitulation: An act of summarizing and restating the main points.
• Harangue, Tirade, Diatribe (for the second, critical meaning): A long, angry, or forceful speech.

Antonyms

• Introduction, Prologue, Opening: The beginning part of a speech or text.
• Understatement: The presentation of something as being smaller or less important than it is.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To launch into a peroration": To begin speaking in a long, formal, and often pompous manner.
  • At the slightest prompt, he would launch into a peroration about the good old days.

Noun

1. (rhetoric) the concluding section of an oration
   • he summarized his main points in his peroration
2. a flowery and highly rhetorical oration