Oral

/ˈɔːrəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
relating to the mouth.
The dentist performed an oral examination to check for cavities.
relating to spoken communication rather than written communication.
The students prepared for their oral presentations in front of the class.
involving the use of the mouth for consumption, especially in reference to medication.
The doctor recommended an oral medication for the patient's condition.

Etymology

From Latin 'oralis', from 'os' meaning 'mouth'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

oral presentation
A spoken presentation given to an audience.
oral exam
A test in which a student answers questions aloud.
oral history
Firsthand accounts of historical events.
oral communication
Conveying information through spoken language.

Related Words

oratory
The skill or art of public speaking.
oralism
A methodology focusing on teaching deaf individuals to use spoken language.
oropharynx
The part of the throat located at the back of the mouth.

Slang Meanings

Oral sex.
They talked openly about oral.
A reference to speaking or communicating in casual terms.
He's great at oral; he can talk anyone's ear off.