aloud
uh-LOWD
Aloud (adv) means using a spoken, audible voice rather than silently. Example: “She read the letter aloud to the whole family.”
adv
1
Using a spoken, audible voice rather than silently.
"She read the letter aloud to the whole family."
"Please think before you speak your thoughts aloud in the meeting."
How to use aloud
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOut loud, using your voice, instead of reading or thinking silently.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "allowed" (permitted) — they sound identical but are unrelated words.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
read aloud
think aloud
say it aloud
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She read the letter _____ to the whole family.
Etymology
From Middle English a loude, formed from a- + loud.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for aloud
See all rhymes for aloud →Frequently asked questions
What does “aloud” mean?
The word “aloud” means using a spoken, audible voice rather than silently. In plain terms, out loud, using your voice, instead of reading or thinking silently.
How do you pronounce “aloud”?
“Aloud” is pronounced uh-LOWD (/əˈlaʊd/ in IPA).
How do you use “aloud” in a sentence?
Here is “aloud” used in a sentence: “She read the letter aloud to the whole family.”
What part of speech is “aloud”?
“Aloud” is an adverb.
Where does the word “aloud” come from?
The word “aloud” comes from Middle English. From Middle English a loude, formed from a- + loud.
Is “aloud” a common word?
“Aloud” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
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