teleprompter: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral, slightly technical. Common in media, politics, and public speaking contexts.
Quick answer
What does “teleprompter” mean?
A device that displays a prepared script for a speaker or presenter to read while looking directly at a camera or audience.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that displays a prepared script for a speaker or presenter to read while looking directly at a camera or audience.
More broadly, any software, system, or tool that allows a person to read pre-written text while maintaining eye contact, including digital equivalents and related techniques like confidence monitors or on-screen prompting.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is identical. British usage may more commonly use the alternative term 'autocue' in broadcast contexts, though 'teleprompter' is widely understood. In American usage, 'teleprompter' is dominant.
Connotations
Generally neutral, but can carry a slight negative connotation in political discourse, implying a speaker lacks genuine knowledge or is overly scripted ('reliant on the teleprompter').
Frequency
More frequent in American English, especially in political journalism. In UK broadcast media, 'autocue' is a familiar synonym.
Grammar
How to Use “teleprompter” in a Sentence
Someone [uses/reads from] a teleprompter.The text [was displayed/scrolled] on the teleprompter.The teleprompter [malfunctioned/scrolled too fast].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “teleprompter” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The presenter was visibly teleprompting throughout the segment.
American English
- She teleprompted the entire State of the Union address flawlessly.
adverb
British English
- The Prime Minister spoke teleprompterly, with perfect timing.
American English
- He delivered the lines teleprompter-perfect, without a single stumble.
adjective
British English
- He gave a teleprompter-assisted speech at the conference.
American English
- The teleprompter speech lacked her usual spontaneous energy.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in corporate presentations, especially for CEOs or spokespersons in video messages or large events to ensure message consistency.
Academic
Rare, except in media studies or communication courses discussing presentation technology.
Everyday
Understood in the context of TV news, speeches, and YouTube creators who use similar software.
Technical
Refers to the specific hardware (beamsplitter glass, monitor, software) used in television studios and live events.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “teleprompter”
- Spelling as 'telepromter' (missing 'p').
- Using it to mean the script itself (e.g., 'His teleprompter was poorly written' – incorrect; should be 'His script on the teleprompter...').
- Treating it as a verb (to teleprompt) – while understood, 'to use a teleprompter' is standard.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are essentially synonyms for the same device. 'Autocue' is a brand name that is commonly used in the UK, similar to how 'Hoover' is used for vacuum cleaners. 'Teleprompter' is the generic term more common in American English and internationally.
Yes, there is software that can turn a tablet, smartphone, or a second monitor into a teleprompter. It is widely used by YouTubers, online course creators, and for remote presentations to help maintain eye contact with the webcam.
Not inherently. It is a professional tool that ensures accuracy, saves time memorising, and helps manage complex information. The skill lies in using it to deliver the text naturally, without appearing to be reading. Over-reliance or poor delivery can make a speaker seem disconnected.
They are typically called a 'teleprompter operator' or simply a 'prompter operator'. In a broadcast studio, this might be a floor manager or a dedicated technical assistant.
A device that displays a prepared script for a speaker or presenter to read while looking directly at a camera or audience.
Teleprompter is usually neutral, slightly technical. common in media, politics, and public speaking contexts. in register.
Teleprompter: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtɛlɪˌprɒmptə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtɛləˌprɑːmptər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To be married to the teleprompter (over-reliant on prepared text)”
- “The teleprompter stopped scrolling (a moment of unpreparedness)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: TELEvision PROMPT-er. It's a device that prompts you (shows your script) for television.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CRUTCH or a SCRIPTED REALITY. It is often metaphorically seen as an external memory or a guide that prevents genuine, spontaneous connection.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a common criticism associated with the use of a teleprompter in political discourse?