compere: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, professional (especially in entertainment/media contexts).
Quick answer
What does “compere” mean?
A person who introduces performers or contestants, links segments, and keeps an entertainment event or show running smoothly.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who introduces performers or contestants, links segments, and keeps an entertainment event or show running smoothly.
To act as the master of ceremonies for a show or event; to host a program in an official capacity, introducing acts and guiding the audience.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Much more common and established in British English. In American English, 'emcee' (MC) or 'host' is strongly preferred, especially for informal events.
Connotations
In the UK: standard, professional term for TV/radio/theatre. In the US: may sound British or old-fashioned; 'emcee' carries stronger connotations of hip-hop or modern events.
Frequency
High frequency in UK media/entertainment. Low-to-rare frequency in general American English, except in contexts influenced by British media.
Grammar
How to Use “compere” in a Sentence
to compere [a show/an event]to act as compere for [something]the compere of [something]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “compere” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She agreed to compere the charity gala.
- He has compèred the show for ten years running.
American English
- She was asked to emcee the awards ceremony.
- He hosted the live broadcast.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- He took on the compere role at short notice.
- Her compere duties included interviewing the winner.
American English
- She had the main host responsibilities.
- His emcee style was very energetic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in the business of event management or broadcasting.
Academic
Extremely rare; not an academic term.
Everyday
Used when discussing TV, radio, or local entertainment events (more common in UK).
Technical
Specific term in broadcasting, theatre, and live event production.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “compere”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “compere”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compere”
- Spelling: 'compear' or 'compair'. Correct is 'compere' or 'compère'.
- Using as a verb without an object: 'He will compere' (correct) vs. 'He will compere at the event' (less standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is both a noun (meaning the person who hosts) and a verb (meaning to act as that host).
'Compere' is more specific to structured entertainment events (TV/radio shows, award ceremonies) where the role involves linking programmed segments. 'Host' is more general and can refer to someone who receives guests at a party or presents any kind of show.
In British English: /ˈkɒmpeə(r)/ (KOM-pair). In American English: /ˈkɑːmper/ (KAHM-pair).
The most direct equivalent is 'emcee' or 'MC' (Master of Ceremonies). 'Host' is also very commonly used.
A person who introduces performers or contestants, links segments, and keeps an entertainment event or show running smoothly.
Compere is usually formal, professional (especially in entertainment/media contexts). in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to compère the show”
- “step into the compere's shoes”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a COMPetent PEER (compere) who confidently guides the event and is equal to the task.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE COMPERE IS A CONDUCTOR (orchestrating the event's flow).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the term 'compere' most commonly used as the standard term for a show's host?