spiel
spiel
UK[ʃpiːl]US[ʃpiːl]
n
A long, fast, and often rehearsed speech or story, typically one used to persuade someone.
v
To deliver such a speech or story.
Etymology
The word 'spiel' entered English in the late 19th century from the German word 'Spiel', meaning 'game' or 'play'. This German term itself evolved from the Old High German 'spil', sharing a common Proto-Germanic root with the English word 'spell', originally denoting a narrative or story. The semantic journey from 'play' or 'game' to a persuasive, often glib, speech reflects the performative and rehearsed nature of such monologues, akin to a player's role or a recited tale. Its adoption into English slang, particularly by salesmen and showmen, cemented its association with fast-talking and elaborate pitches.
Analysis
This word is a loanword from German, adopted as a simplex unit into English. Its components are not productively segmented within the English spelling system.
Examples
The salesman launched into a well-practiced spiel about the car's revolutionary features.
You don't have to give me your whole spiel; I'm already convinced.
He can spiel off the entire company history without pausing for breath.