Essential Types of Ceremonial Speeches and Public Speaking Roles

Understanding Key Ceremonial Speeches and Public Roles

Ceremonial speeches serve vital functions in public life, marking important transitions, celebrations, and acknowledgments. Below are definitions of essential speech types and related roles in public speaking.

Master of Ceremonies (MC)

An individual designated to set the mood of the program, introduce participants, and keep the program moving smoothly.

Speech of Welcome

A brief, formal ceremonial address that greets and expresses pleasure for the presence of a person or an organization.

Speech of Introduction

A brief ceremonial speech that establishes a supportive climate for the main speaker, highlights the speaker's credibility by familiarizing the audience with pertinent biographical information, and generates enthusiasm for listening to the speaker.

Speech of Nomination

A ceremonial presentation that proposes a nominee for an elective office, honor, position, or award.

Speech of Recognition

A ceremonial presentation that acknowledges someone and usually presents an award, a prize, or a gift to the individual or a representative of a group.

Speech of Acceptance

A ceremonial speech given to acknowledge receipt of an honor or award.

Speeches of Tribute

A Speech of Tribute is a ceremonial speech that praises or celebrates a person, a group, or an event. Specific forms include:

• Eulogy

  A ceremonial speech of tribute during a funeral or memorial service that praises someone’s life and accomplishments.

• Commencement Address

  A speech of tribute praising graduating students and inspiring them to reach for their goals.

• Commemorative Address

  A speech of tribute that celebrates national holidays or anniversaries of important events.

• Dedication Speech

  A speech of tribute that honors a worthy person or group by naming a structure, monument, or park after them.

• Farewell Speech

  A speech of tribute honoring someone who is leaving an organization.

Toast

A ceremonial speech offered at the start of a reception or meal that pays tribute to the occasion or to a person.

Roast

An event where guests provide short speeches of tribute about the featured guest that are developed with humorous stories and anecdotes.

Keynote Address

A ceremonial speech that both sets the tone and generates enthusiasm for the topic of a conference or convention.

Speech to Entertain

A humorous speech that makes a serious point, often used to lighten the mood while conveying a meaningful message.