seminar

[ sem-uh-nahr ]

noun

1. a small group of students, as in a university, engaged in advanced study and original research under a member of the faculty and meeting regularly to exchange information and hold discussions.
2. the gathering place of such a group.
3. a meeting of such a group.
4. a course or subject of study for advanced graduate students.
5. any meeting for exchanging information and holding discussions.

seminar

/ ˈsɛmɪˌnɑː /

noun

1. a small group of students meeting regularly under the guidance of a tutor, professor, etc, to exchange information, discuss theories, etc
2. one such meeting or the place in which it is held
3. a higher course for postgraduates
4. any group or meeting for holding discussions or exchanging information

Word History and Origins

Origin of seminar¹

1885–90, Americanism; < German < Latin sēminārium seminary

Word History and Origins

Origin of seminar¹

C19: via German from Latin sēminārium seminary

Example Sentences

“When the fire is creeping up the hillside toward people’s houses, you don’t say, ‘Hey let’s sit down and have a seminar about the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and avoid this problem in the future,’” Pastor said.

From Los Angeles Times

After a gruelling 36-hour shift, she had fallen asleep in a seminar room due to the lack of a designated rest area.

From BBC

He recommended AARP’s “Let’s Have a Conversation” online seminar, which offers strategies on how to make that happen.

From Los Angeles Times

Tell me a bit about your seminar at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, "Sun-Kissed Cooking: Recipes that Celebrate the Season?"

From Salon

With both Montana trips, Cannon’s required seminar disclosures were not posted until NPR reporters asked about the omissions this year as part of a broader national investigation of gaps in judicial disclosures.

From Salon

Related Words

• convention
• discussion
• forum
• group discussion
• meeting
• round table
• symposium
• workshop