noun
improv
IHMP-rov
Improv (noun) means Unscripted comedy or theatre performed spontaneously, often based on audience suggestions. Example: “The comedy club runs an improv night every Thursday.”
noun
1
Unscripted comedy or theatre performed spontaneously, often based on audience suggestions.
"The comedy club runs an improv night every Thursday."
"She joined an improv class to get more comfortable performing on stage."
How to use improv
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishComedy or theatre made up on the spot, without a script.
When to use it
Informal; a clipped form used mainly in the entertainment world.
Common pairings
improv comedy
improv class
improv night
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like improv.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- improvs
- Third person singular
- improvs
- Past tense
- improvved
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The comedy club runs an _____ night every Thursday.
Etymology
A shortening of improvisation.
Synonyms
View more →
impro
Frequently asked questions
What does “improv” mean?
The word “improv” means unscripted comedy or theatre performed spontaneously, often based on audience suggestions. In plain terms, comedy or theatre made up on the spot, without a script.
How do you pronounce “improv”?
“Improv” is pronounced IHMP-rov (/ˈɪmpɹɑv/ in IPA).
How do you use “improv” in a sentence?
Here is “improv” used in a sentence: “The comedy club runs an improv night every Thursday.”
What is another word for “improv”?
Words with a similar meaning to “improv” include impro.
What part of speech is “improv”?
“Improv” is a noun.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include improv:
