ad lib
Originating from the Latin phrase 'ad libitum,' meaning 'at one's pleasure,' 'ad lib' denotes improvisation or spontaneity in various contexts.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)To do something spontaneously or without prior preparation.
Example
- He had to ad-lib his speech when the teleprompter failed.
B2Theater and Film
(performing arts)To improvise lines or actions during a scripted performance.
Example
- The actor had to ad-lib when he forgot his lines.
B2Music
(technical)To improvise a melodic line or lyrics, especially in a recorded piece.
Example
- The singer added some ad libs to enhance the song.
C1Medical
(technical)Allowing a patient to have something, such as water, as much as they want.
Example
- The doctor prescribed fluids ad lib for the patient.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "ad lib":