First Known Use: 1919
Dictionary
1ad–lib
verb \ˈad-ˈlib\
: to make up words or music in a performance instead of saying or playing something that has been planned
ad–libbedad–lib·bing
Full Definition of AD-LIB
transitive verb
: to deliver spontaneously
intransitive verb
: to improvise especially lines or a speech
— ad–lib noun
See ad–lib defined for English-language learners
See ad-lib defined for kids
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Origin of AD-LIB
ad lib
Related to AD-LIB
- Synonyms
- ad-lib, clap (together or up), extemporize, fake
2ad–lib
adjective
Definition of AD-LIB
: spoken, composed, or performed without preparation
First Known Use of AD-LIB
1935
Related to AD-LIB
- Synonyms
- ad hoc, ad-lib, down and dirty, extemporary, extempore, impromptu, improvisational, improvised, offhand, offhanded, off-the-cuff, snap, spur-of-the-moment, unconsidered, unplanned, unpremeditated, unprepared, unrehearsed, unstudied
- Antonyms
- considered, planned, premeditated, premeditative, prepared, rehearsed
AD-LIB Defined for Kids
ad–lib
verb \ˈad-ˈlib\
ad–libbedad–lib·bing
Definition of AD-LIB for Kids
: to make up something and especially music or spoken lines during a performance : improvise
Medical Dictionary
ad–lib
adjective \(ˈ)ad-ˈlib\
Medical Definition of AD–LIB
: made or done spontaneously : not controlled by a schedule <ad–lib feeding of animals>
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