Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » ad-lib

ad-lib

Listen See in Thesaurus See in a sentence

The definition of ad lib refers to something that is made up as one goes along, or that is unscripted.

(noun)

An example of an ad lib is an improv performance where the actors take audience suggestions and create a play as they go along.

Ad lib is defined as making something up as you go along.

(verb)

An example of ad lib is coming up with a lie on the spot to avoid getting into trouble.

See ad-lib in Webster's New World College Dictionary

☆

transitive verb, intransitive verb ad-libbed, ad-libbing

to improvise (words, gestures, etc. not in a prepared speech, script, etc.); extemporize

Origin: < ad libitum

noun

the act of ad-libbing or an ad-libbed remark

also ad lib

adjective

spoken or done extemporaneously

adverb

extemporaneously

also ad lib

ad libitum
Pharmacy as needed

See ad-lib in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adverb

In an unrestrained manner; spontaneously.

Origin:

Origin: Short for ad libitum

verb ad-libbed ad-libbed, ad-lib·bing, ad-libs

verb, transitive

To improvise and deliver extemporaneously.

verb, intransitive

To engage in improvisation, as during delivery of a speech.

noun (ădˈlĭbˌ)

Words, music, or actions uttered, performed, or carried out extemporaneously.

adjective

Uttered, performed, or carried out spontaneously. See Synonyms at extemporaneous.

Related Forms:

ad-libˈber noun

Learn more about ad-lib

ad-lib synonyms

Ad Lib computer definition

ad lib. medical definition

ad-lib in a sentence

link/cite print suggestion box

More from YD

» more results...