VocabDictionary

prompt

/prɒmpt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Done without delay; immediate.

Example Sentences:
  • The company gave a prompt response to my complaint.
  • A prompt payment is appreciated.
2.adjective

Acting or arriving on time; punctual.

Example Sentences:
  • Please be prompt for the meeting.
  • He is always prompt in his attendance.
3.verb

To cause or bring about (an action or feeling).

Example Sentences:
  • The news prompted a wave of protests.
  • What prompted you to say that?
4.verb

To assist (an actor or speaker) by suggesting the next words.

Example Sentences:
  • The actor had to be prompted several times.
  • She needed prompting to remember the details.
5.noun

An act of assisting an actor or speaker.

Example Sentences:
  • He missed his cue and needed a prompt.
  • The prompt was barely audible to the audience.
6.noun

A word or phrase given to someone to encourage them to speak or write.

Example Sentences:
  • The teacher gave the students a writing prompt.
  • The interview prompt was very open-ended.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “prompt”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The word 'prompt' originated in the late 14th century from the Old French word 'prompt' and directly from the Latin 'promptus', meaning 'brought forth, visible, ready, quick'. It is the past participle of 'promere', which means 'to bring forth'. The sense of 'to incite to action' developed in the 15th century, and the theatrical sense of 'to remind an actor of their lines' emerged in the 16th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'prompt' as 'prepared' and 'on time'.

Frequently Asked Questions About “prompt

1. What is the meaning of “prompt” in English?

In English, prompt (adjective) is defined as: “Done without delay; immediate.”.

2. How do you use “prompt” in a sentence?

The company gave a prompt response to my complaint.

3. What are English synonyms of “prompt”?

Common synonyms include:immediate,punctual,incite,remind,cue

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “prompt”?

The word 'prompt' originated in the late 14th century from the Old French word 'prompt' and directly from the Latin 'promptus', meaning 'brought forth, visible, ready, quick'. It is the past participle of 'promere', which means 'to bring forth'. The sense of 'to incite to action' developed in the 15th century, and the theatrical sense of 'to remind an actor of their lines' emerged in the 16th century.