Pronunciation: [ˈaləkjˌuːtəs] (IPA) 
The word "ALLOCUTUS" is spelled with three syllables: al-lo-cu-tus. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound (æ), the second with a long "o" sound (oʊ), and the third with a short "u" sound (ʌ). In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is represented as /æˈlɑkjuˌtəs/. As for its meaning, "ALLOCUTUS" is a Latin word that means "to address" or "to speak to".
"Allocutus" is a Latin term that can be defined as a person who delivers an address or a formal speech, often in a legal or court setting. Derived from the Latin words "ad" meaning "to" and "loqui" meaning "to speak," allocutus refers to the act or instance of making a statement or delivering a speech in a formal manner.
In legal contexts, allocutus specifically refers to a formal address or speech made by a judge or a court official during sentencing in a criminal case. The allocutus is an opportunity for the defendant, or their legal representative, to make a statement to the court, usually taking into account any mitigating factors that may reduce the severity of the sentence. This speech allows the defendant to express remorse, present evidence of their character or circumstances, or plea for leniency.
Outside of legal proceedings, allocutus may also refer to any formal or public speech made by an individual addressing an audience. This can include situations such as political speeches, academic presentations, or ceremonial addresses.
Overall, the term allocutus describes the act of delivering a formal speech or address, typically in a legal or court setting, but also relevant to various other public speaking contexts.
