# reciting

/ɹiˈsaɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹɪsˈaɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reciting
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

saying a poem, story, or list of facts out loud from memory. You do this when you have learned something by heart and want to share it with others.

For teachers: repeating a text, poem, or set of facts aloud from memory. Present participle form; describes the act of oral delivery without the use of written notes.

## Examples

- She is reciting a poem for the class.
- The young student stood at the front of the room, nervously reciting the lines he had practiced all week.
- While reciting the ancient epic, the performer used rhythmic pauses to emphasize the dramatic tension of the hero's journey.

## Usage notes

- Often takes a direct object (the text being spoken) or can be used intransitively.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.