VoiceoverActing

The Essential Showbiz Dictionary™

Voiceover Acting Terms​

3 minute read | Last updated: 4 months ago

Welcome to The Essential Showbiz Dictionary™. This page focuses on the key terms related to voiceovers in the entertainment industry. For instance, knowing the “ADR” (Automated Dialogue Replacement) meaning is vital—it refers to re-recording dialogue during post-production to improve sound quality or sync issues. Whether you’re starting out as a voice actor or working in post-production, understanding these terms is crucial to excelling in the world of voice work.

By mastering these voice over terms, you’ll be able to navigate both the creative and technical aspects of voice acting. This section offers straightforward definitions to help you understand the terminology used in recording sessions, auditions, and post-production processes. We’re regularly updating our voice over terms, so be sure to revisit this section to stay informed and sharpen your voice acting knowledge.

Browse the List of Voiceover Acting Terms

Booth

A booth is a soundproof room used by voice actors, narrators, or singers to record audio in a controlled, noise-free environment.

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Language Dubbing

Language dubbing is the process of replacing original dialogue with new dialogue in a different language, making films or TV shows accessible to international audiences.

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Lip-Sync

Lip-syncing is the practice of matching an actor’s or performer’s lip movements to pre-recorded audio, used in film, TV, music videos, and live performances.

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Narration

Narration is spoken commentary that accompanies films, TV shows, or documentaries, providing context, storytelling, or background information.

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Overdub

Overdub is the process of recording new audio over existing tracks in post-production, commonly used to enhance or replace dialogue, sound effects, or music.

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Punch and Roll

Punch and roll is a recording technique used in voiceover work to seamlessly correct mistakes without re-recording the entire take, ensuring smoother edits.

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Voice Actor

A voice actor is an actor who performs voice work for media like animated films, TV shows, commercials, and video games, bringing characters or narratives to life.

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Voice Training

Voice training is the practice of improving vocal techniques through exercises that help actors, singers, and voiceover artists control pitch, tone, and volume.

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