hlasatel

Hlasatel is a noun used in several Slavic languages to denote an announcer, presenter, or broadcaster. In broadcasting, a hlasatel is typically a person who reads news, introduces program segments, or issues official announcements to listeners or viewers. The term may be applied to radio announcers, television hosts, or public-address speakers at events. Depending on the language and historical period, its exact duties and status have differed, ranging from a professional broadcaster to a ceremonial official.

Etymology and cognates: The word derives from a root meaning "to speak, announce" with the agentive suffix -atel, yielding "one who announces." Because Slavic languages mark gender, forms such as hlasatel (masculine) and hlasatelka or similar feminine variants appear in some languages. While still understood in some traditions, many modern media outlets prefer terms such as presenter or newsreader.

Contexts: The term is more common in older or formal texts, in public institutions, or in reference to classic broadcasting roles. In contemporary usage, it is often replaced by neutral titles in official contexts, though historical records and some broadcasters still employ hlasatel to describe the role of a traditional announcer.