Word Archaeology: abat-voix

This device, which can be as simple as a wooden structure above and behind a speaker’s stand on a pulpit, reflects sound toward an audience. Also known more commonly as a “sounding board”, the term is derived from the French words abattre (“to beat down”) and voix (“voice”). According to Merriam-Webster, the word was first used in 1872.

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Wes Platt

Lead storyteller. Game designer and journalist. Recovering Floridian.

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