ETYM French monologue, Greek, speaking alone; monos alone, single, sole + logos speech, discourse, legein to speak. Related to Legend.
One person speaking, though the term is generally understood to mean a virtuoso solo performance. Literary monologues are often set pieces in which a character reveals his or her personality, sometimes unintentionally (as in the dramatic monologue); in drama the soliloquy performs a similar function.
A monologue can occur in a dialogue; for example, in a conversation where one person suddenly launches into a lengthy anecdote.
1. A (usually long) dramatic speech by a single actor.
2. A long utterance by one person (especially one that prevents others from participating in the conversation).