pep talk

American  

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.

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pep talk British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of pep talk

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

A similar pep talk was in order before Sunday’s final round.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Tennis great Roger Federer even invited Shiffrin and her mother, Eileen, to his Swiss mountain home to give her a pep talk.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

And a quick pep talk, if you need one: most neighbors are genuinely happy to meet you!

From Salon • Jan. 27, 2026

Redondo Union players got a good pep talk before a win over Long Beach Poly.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 1, 2025

‘Is that your idea of a pep talk?’

From "Blood of Olympus" by Rick Riordan