Vocabulary word Recite - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Behavior and Conduct

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Devotion and Discipline

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Excellence and Eminence

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Interaction and Articulation

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Language and Expression 2

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Dictionary Definition of recite

To repeat something, such as a poem, a passage, or a prayer, from memory or from a written text.
"They recite their favorite quotes before every game."

Detailed Meaning of Recite

It is a verb that implies the act of speaking or saying something aloud, with the purpose of memorizing, learning or performing it. In the context of education, it can refer to a student reciting a lesson or a poem that they have learned in class, or to a teacher reciting a passage from a book to their students. In the context of religious practices, it can refer to reciting prayers or hymns as part of a religious service. Reciting can also refer to the act of performing a piece of literature, poetry, or a song in front of an audience. In general, when something is described as reciting, it implies the act of repeating something, such as a poem, a passage, or a prayer, from memory or from a written text, with the purpose of memorizing, learning or performing it.

Example Sentences for Recite

1. She stands poised, ready to recite tales of ages gone by and nights long past.
2. At sunrise, monks recite their oaths, pledging harmony and peace that'll last.
3. In shadows, voices recite stories, painting dreams on the canvas vast.
4. Gathered by the fire, we recite ancient songs, weaving bonds so fast.
5. Under a canopy of stars, he'll recite verses, turning heartbeats into a broadcast.
6. With every milestone, elders recite rituals, connecting present to the past.

Origin and Etymology of Recite

The verb 'recite' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'recitare.' This Latin term is a combination of 're-' indicating 'back' or 'again,' and 'citare,' meaning 'to summon' or 'to cite.' In ancient Rome, 'recitare' was used in the context of reading aloud or performing literary works, often in a public or ritualistic setting. Over time, it evolved to encompass the act of repeating something, such as a poem, a passage, or a prayer, either from memory or from a written text. The etymology of 'recite' thus highlights the notion of summoning or citing words or expressions, whether in a formal recitation or simply when repeating something verbatim.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb recite:

repeat

forget

ignore

overlook

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Recite

1. Children, in chorus, recite rhymes, in moments that will forever last.
2. With eyes closed, palms together, they recite prayers, breaking the fast.
3. In theatres and halls, actors recite lines, becoming legends unsurpassed.
4. By moonlit shores, waves recite tales, of sailors, storms, and a mast.
5. When winds whisper and trees sway, forests recite legends, vast and vast.
6. She will recite the national anthem at the event.
7. We often recite prayers before going to bed.
8. The teacher asked the students to recite the multiplication table.
9. He would recite Shakespearean sonnets with great passion.
10. My grandmother can recite all the names of her grandchildren in order.
11. The actor will recite a famous monologue from the play.
12. The politician likes to recite statistics to support his arguments.
13. We should recite the pledge of allegiance during the assembly.
14. The children eagerly recite nursery rhymes in the school play.
15. She loves to recite lines from her favorite movie.
16. The priest will recite the wedding vows during the ceremony.
17. The historian can recite the entire timeline of the ancient civilization.
18. The poet is invited to recite his new poem at the literary festival.
19. They recite historical facts to impress their friends.
20. I sometimes recite affirmations to boost my confidence.
21. The professor asked the students to recite the definition of democracy.
22. He can recite the lyrics of every song from his favorite band.
23. The actor's ability to recite lines flawlessly impressed the audience.