loudspeaker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to Technical
Quick answer
What does “loudspeaker” mean?
An electromechanical device that converts electrical audio signals into audible sound.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An electromechanical device that converts electrical audio signals into audible sound.
Any system or person that amplifies or broadcasts a message, idea, or sound to a wide audience.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. 'Speaker' is more common in casual American English, while 'loudspeaker' is slightly more formal/technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral technical term. The metaphorical use ('a loudspeaker for the movement') is equally understood.
Frequency
'Speaker' is more frequent in everyday conversation in both regions. 'Loudspeaker' is common in technical, retail, and formal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “loudspeaker” in a Sentence
The loudspeaker + [verb: crackled, blared, emitted][Verb: Connect, Adjust, Blow] + the loudspeakerA loudspeaker + [prepositional phrase: for the hall, on the pole]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “loudspeaker” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The system was loudspeakered throughout the factory floor.
- (Rare, technical) The signal is then loudspeakered into the auditorium.
American English
- (Rare, usually 'broadcast over loudspeakers') The announcement was loudspeakered across the base.
adverb
British English
- (Not used)
American English
- (Not used)
adjective
British English
- (Rare, usually attributive noun) The loudspeaker output was distorted.
- We need a loudspeaker technician.
American English
- (Rare, usually attributive noun) Check the loudspeaker wiring.
- The loudspeaker quality is poor.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to equipment for presentations, conferences, or public address systems in buildings.
Academic
Used in physics and engineering contexts discussing acoustics, transducer technology, and sound reproduction.
Everyday
Refers to the speaker in a phone, computer, radio, or a standalone unit for music or announcements.
Technical
A transducer that converts electrical energy into acoustic energy via a diaphragm. Key terms: driver, woofer, tweeter, impedance.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “loudspeaker”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “loudspeaker”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “loudspeaker”
- Using 'loudspeaker' for the person speaking at an event (that is a 'speaker' or 'keynote speaker').
- Misspelling as 'loud speaker' (should be one word or hyphenated: loud-speaker).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In everyday language, they are often interchangeable. Technically, a 'loudspeaker' is the complete transducer unit, while a 'speaker' can be a shortening of that term. In a multi-driver system (like a bookshelf speaker), the loudspeaker is the cabinet containing individual drivers (woofers, tweeters). 'Speaker' is more common casually.
Not literally. Figuratively, yes. If someone is a 'loudspeaker for a cause', it means they are a very prominent and vocal advocate, broadcasting that message widely.
Yes, it is a closed compound noun formed from 'loud' + 'speaker'. The hyphenated form 'loud-speaker' is now less common but historically valid.
No, the frequency is similar relative to the simpler term 'speaker'. Both varieties use 'loudspeaker' in technical, retail, and formal descriptions. In casual speech, 'speaker' dominates in both.
An electromechanical device that converts electrical audio signals into audible sound.
Loudspeaker is usually neutral to technical in register.
Loudspeaker: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlaʊdˈspiːkə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlaʊdˌspikər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Preaching from a loudspeaker (metaphorical, implying forceful, one-way communication)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of it literally: a speaker that is LOUD. It makes the sound loud enough for many people to hear.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PERSON/THING AS A BROADCASTING DEVICE (e.g., 'The newspaper became a loudspeaker for government propaganda').
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'loudspeaker' used metaphorically?