public-address system

[ puhb-lik-uh-dres ]

noun

1. a combination of electronic devices that makes sound audible via loudspeakers to many people, as in an auditorium or out of doors.

public-address system

noun

1. a system of one or more microphones, amplifiers, and loudspeakers for increasing the sound level of speech or music, used in auditoriums, public gatherings, etc Sometimes shortened toPA system

Word History and Origins

Origin of public-address system¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

After completing his warmup pitches with Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls on Parade” blaring on the Dodger Stadium public-address system, Buehler went into his windup with the signature high leg-kick and fired his first pitch, a 96-mph fastball, by Miami leadoff hitter Jazz Chisholm Jr. for strike one.

From Los Angeles Times

But then a disembodied voice wafted soothingly over the public-address system.

From New York Times

Pop music blared from the public-address system through the entire game, even when pitches were about to be thrown.

From Los Angeles Times

These needed to be kept at a distance from exploding pyrotechnics and angled away from the blare of the stadium’s public-address system.

From New York Times

That’s when Brown turned on his overhead lights, drew his weapon, got on his car’s public-address system and ordered Sims back into the vehicle, according to the reports.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• bullhorn
• megaphone
• public address system