Pronunciation: /æd ˈlɪb/

Definitions of ad lib

noun a spontaneous or improvised speech or performance

Example Sentences

A1 I had to ad lib my speech because I forgot my notes.

A2 During the play, the actor had to ad lib a few lines when he forgot his script.

B1 The comedian's ad lib jokes were the highlight of the show.

B2 She was able to ad lib a convincing excuse for being late.

C1 The politician's ability to ad lib during debates impressed many voters.

C2 The actor's ad lib performance brought a new level of authenticity to the scene.

verb to speak or perform without preparation

Example Sentences

A1 I ad libbed my speech because I forgot my notes.

A2 She ad libs jokes during her presentations to keep the audience engaged.

B1 The actor had to ad lib his lines when the teleprompter stopped working.

B2 During the improv show, the comedians ad libbed hilarious scenes based on audience suggestions.

C1 The skilled debater was able to ad lib convincing arguments on the spot.

C2 The seasoned politician was known for his ability to ad lib eloquent speeches without preparation.

Examples of ad lib in a Sentence

formal The actor was able to ad lib his lines flawlessly during the live performance.

informal She had to ad lib a response when asked a question she wasn't prepared for.

slang I love watching comedians ad lib during their stand-up routines.

figurative Sometimes in life, you have to ad lib and make quick decisions on the spot.

Grammatical Forms of ad lib

past tense

ad libbed

plural

ad libs

comparative

more ad lib

superlative

most ad lib

present tense

ad libs

future tense

will ad lib

perfect tense

has ad libbed

continuous tense

is ad libbing

singular

ad lib

positive degree

more ad lib

infinitive

to ad lib

gerund

ad libbing

participle

ad libbed

Origin and Evolution of ad lib

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The term 'ad lib' comes from the Latin phrase 'ad libitum', meaning 'at one's pleasure' or 'as one desires'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in music to indicate that a performer can improvise or play freely, 'ad lib' has evolved to mean speaking or performing without preparation or a script in various contexts such as acting, comedy, and public speaking.