lip-synch: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “lip-synch” mean?
To move one's mouth in synchronization with pre-recorded audio, typically singing or speech, without producing the actual sound live.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To move one's mouth in synchronization with pre-recorded audio, typically singing or speech, without producing the actual sound live.
To perform or present something (music, dialogue, etc.) in a way that simulates a live performance but uses pre-recorded material, often implying a lack of authenticity or effort. It can also refer to the technical process of synchronizing audio and video.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
UK English shows a slight preference for 'lip-synch', while US English overwhelmingly uses 'lip-sync'. The past tense and participle are typically 'lip-synched' (UK) and 'lip-synced' (US).
Connotations
Identical in both varieties: implies inauthenticity or technical matching. In performance contexts, it is usually negative.
Frequency
The term is moderately common in both varieties, appearing in entertainment, media, and casual discussion. 'Lip-sync' is significantly more frequent globally.
Grammar
How to Use “lip-synch” in a Sentence
[subject] lip-synchs [to/along with object][subject] lip-synchs [object: song/dialogue]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lip-synch” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The singer was ill, so she had to lip-synch to the studio recording during the live broadcast.
- He lip-synched perfectly to the Queen anthem.
American English
- Many pop stars lip-sync during complex dance numbers on tour.
- She was caught lip-syncing her acceptance speech in the blooper reel.
adverb
British English
- He performed the song lip-synch.
- The number was done entirely lip-synch.
adjective
British English
- The show featured a hilarious lip-synch battle between the hosts.
- It was a blatantly obvious lip-synch performance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Might appear in event planning for entertainment logistics.
Academic
Used in media studies, performance studies, and musicology to discuss authenticity and technology in performance.
Everyday
Common when discussing pop concerts, TV shows (e.g., talent shows), or video creation apps like TikTok.
Technical
Used in film, television, and music video production for the post-production process of matching audio to filmed footage.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lip-synch”
- Misspelling as 'lip-sink'.
- Using 'lip-synch' as a noun only (it is primarily a verb).
- Confusing with 'playback', which is the technical act of playing the recorded sound.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Lip-synch specifically involves synchronizing mouth movements to pre-recorded audio (speech or song). Mime is a broader performance art of silent physical storytelling, though it can include 'lip-synching' as a technique.
Both are correct. 'Lip-sync' is the more common modern spelling, especially in American English. 'Lip-synch' is an older variant, with 'synch' being an abbreviation of 'synchronize'.
No, by definition, lip-synching is done to pre-recorded sound. Mimicking or mouthing along to a live performance happening elsewhere would simply be 'mouthing along' or mimicking.
A popular competitive game or show where participants perform by lip-synching to songs, often with dramatic gestures and costumes, aiming to entertain and out-perform their opponent. It was popularized by the TV show 'Lip Sync Battle'.
To move one's mouth in synchronization with pre-recorded audio, typically singing or speech, without producing the actual sound live.
Lip-synch is usually informal to neutral in register.
Lip-synch: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɪp sɪŋk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɪp sɪŋk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “lip-synch for your life (from RuPaul's Drag Race, meaning to perform a lip-sync competitively and with high stakes)”
- “a lip-sync battle”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'LIP' (your mouth) and 'SYNCH' (short for SYNCHronize). You SYNCHronize your LIP movements to sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
PERFORMANCE IS DECEPTION (when used negatively); TECHNOLOGY IS A CRUTCH.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'lip-synching' generally NOT considered deceptive or negative?