oral meaning and definition

ORAL noun

Definition of oral (noun)

1. an examination conducted by spoken communication
   • synonyms: oral exam, oral examination, viva, viva voce

ORAL adjective

Definition of oral (adjective)

1. using speech rather than writing
   • "an oral tradition"; "an oral agreement"
   • synonyms: unwritten
2. of or relating to or affecting or for use in the mouth
   • "oral hygiene"; "an oral thermometer"; "an oral vaccine"
3. of or involving the mouth or mouth region or the surface on which the mouth is located
   • "the oral cavity"; "the oral mucous membrane"; "the oral surface of a starfish"
   • antonym: aboral
4. a stage in psychosexual development when the child's interest is concentrated in the mouth; fixation at this stage is said to result in dependence, selfishness, and aggression
   • antonym: anal