Definition of "recitation" in English

noun

1. The act of publicly reciting something previously memorized.

2. The material recited.

3. A regularly scheduled class, in a school, in which discussion occurs of the material covered in a parallel lecture.

   • 1896, Frank Norris, "The 'English Courses' of the University of California", reprinted in, 1986, Novels and Essays, Library of America, →ISBN, page 1109, In the "announcement of courses" published annually by the faculty of the University of California the reader cannot fail to be impressed with the number and scope of the hours devoted by the students to recitations and lectures upon the subject of "literature."

4. A reiteration; a setting down, e.g. for ease of reference, of something previously established.

5. (music) A part of a song's lyrics that is spoken rather than sung.