pep talk

noun

1. a vigorous, emotional talk, as to a person or group, intended to arouse enthusiasm, increase determination to succeed, etc.:

   The coach gave the team a pep talk before the game.

pep talk

noun

1. informal.
   an enthusiastic talk designed to increase confidence, production, cooperation, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of pep talk¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

On the morning he would face USC for the first time, still trying to shake off his symptoms, Foster received a pep talk from his coach.

From Los Angeles Times

Schneider kicks off each Great Walk at a landmark, such as Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Shrine Auditorium or the Exposition Park Rose Garden, where there’s typically a guest speaker giving a pep talk.

From Los Angeles Times

She should visit the team before Game 1 on Friday — except manager Dave Roberts and his guys should be giving her a pep talk on how to win, not the other way around.

From Los Angeles Times

It was a "ridiculous business... when they made me try to persuade Harry to stay. Kind of manly pep talk. Totally hopeless", writes Johnson, about the meeting between the pair of Old Etonians.

From BBC

At the Democratic National Convention, Walz was introduced by his former high school players and then gave a pep talk.

From Salon