Seminar

Definition

A seminar is a form of academic instruction, either at an academic institution or offered by a commercial or professional organization. It has the function of bringing together small groups for recurring meetings, focusing each time on some particular subject, in which everyone present is requested to participate.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛmɪˌnɑr/
• Respelling: SEM-i-nar (with "SEM" as in "hem," "i" as in "bit," and "nar" as in "car")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛmɪnɑː/
• Respelling: SEM-i-nar (similar to American English, with "SEM" as in "hem," "i" as in "bit," and "nar" more drawn out, akin to "far" without the rhotic 'r')

In both dialects, "seminar" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SEM." The American English version may emphasize the 'r' at the end more than the British English pronunciation, which typically features a non-rhotic accent where the 'r' at the end of words is less pronounced or silent.

Etymology

The term seminar is derived from the Latin word seminarium, meaning "seed plot" or "plant nursery," which in turn stems from semen, meaning "seed."

Derivatives

• Seminarian
• Seminary
• Seminarist
• Seminaristic
• Seminarily

Synonyms

• Workshop
• Symposium
• Conference

Antonyms

• Lecture
• Individual Study
• Self-directed Learning

Usage

The term seminar is widely used in the academic and professional world to refer to a gathering where ideas, research findings, and knowledge are shared and discussed in a collaborative manner. It is often seen as a more interactive and participatory form of learning compared to traditional lectures.

Related Terms

• Webinar
• Roundtable
• Panel discussion

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A meeting for the discussion, exploration, or teaching of a particular subject, where participants share their knowledge, ideas, or research findings.
• Example: The university organized a seminar on sustainable development to foster interdisciplinary discussions among faculty and students.

• An advanced group of students studying under a professor with each doing original research and all exchanging results through reports and discussions.
• Example: The postgraduate seminar is scheduled every Thursday to discuss the progress of their individual research projects.

• A commercial or professional instruction session providing practical information, techniques, or skills.
• Example: The management seminar provided insights into effective team leadership and conflict resolution strategies.