Conference

Definition

Conference is a noun. It refers to a formal meeting or gathering of individuals, often experts or professionals, who come together to discuss, consult, or exchange information on a specific topic. It may also refer to a sports league or association of teams.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːnfərəns/
• Respelling: KON-fuh-runs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒnfərəns/
• Respelling: KON-fuh-runs

Etymology

The word "conference" originates from the Latin "conferentia," meaning "a bringing together" or "consultation," derived from "conferre" (to bring together). The term entered Middle English through Old French in the 16th century, initially meaning "a meeting for discussion or consultation."

Derivatives

• Confer (verb)
• Conference call (noun)
• Conferential (adjective)
• Conferencing (noun)
• Interconference (adjective)

Synonyms

• Meeting
• Convention
• Symposium

Antonyms

• Isolation
• Solitude
• Dispersal

Usage

The term "conference" is commonly used in professional, academic, and organizational contexts. For example, "She attended a medical conference on cardiology," or "The team participated in a virtual conference to discuss upcoming projects."

Related Terms

• Meeting: An assembly of people for a particular purpose, especially for discussion.
• Seminar: A small, specialized conference focused on a particular subject.
• Workshop: A meeting where people engage in intensive discussion or activity on a particular subject.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A formal gathering of people to discuss a specific topic: Refers to a planned event where individuals come together to share information and ideas.
  • Example: "The academic conference featured presentations on various research topics."
• A sports league or association: Used to describe a group of sports teams organized within a league or association.
  • Example: "The team is part of the Western Conference in the basketball league."
• An organized exchange of information via telecommunications: Refers to virtual or remote conferences where participants interact using telecommunications technology.
  • Example: "They held a conference call to discuss the project remotely."