conversation

[ kon-ver-sey-shuhn ]

noun

1. 1. informal interchange of thoughts, information, etc., by spoken words; oral communication between persons; talk:

      how to master the art of conversation.

   2. such interchange by sign language, email, or other nonoral means of communication:

      I enjoy our time on the phone, but she prefers conversation by texting.

   3. an instance of this:

      I had a long phone conversation with my cousin in Florida.

   Synonyms: colloquy, chat, dialogue

2. an informal public exchange of ideas or opinions about a particular issue; a dialogue:

   It’s time for a global conversation about the epidemic.

3. association or social intercourse:

   a year's conversation with him as his caregiver and friend.

4. criminal conversation.
5. the ability to talk socially with others:

   She writes well but has no conversation.

6. Obsolete.
   1. behavior or manner of living.
   2. close familiarity; intimate acquaintance, as from constant use or study.

conversation

/ ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃən /

noun

1. the interchange through speech of information, ideas, etc; spoken communication
2. make conversation
   to talk in an artificial way

Other Words From

• pre·con·ver·sa·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of conversation¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English conversacio(u)n, from Latin conversātiōn- (stem of conversātiō ) “familiarity, conduct, behavior,” equivalent to conversāt(us), past participle of conversārī “to associate with” + -iōn- noun suffix; converse ¹, -ion

Idioms and Phrases

In addition to the idiom beginning with conversation , also see make conversation .

Example Sentences

He told police there was “always” conversation and “always” consensual contact between himself and Doe.

From Los Angeles Times

She also said when teachers are trained to offer that support "they're more confident to open up those conversations and ask the child what help and support they need and want".

From BBC

Ms Mason also recounted a conversation with Hutchins' mother 18 months ago during which she told her she wanted the film to be completed because it was her daughter’s "big work".

From BBC

Our conversation is interrupted by a passing patrol car.

From BBC

“When we’re really emotionally stimulated, it makes it so much more challenging to have civil conversation. For politicians, I think that’s powerful, because emotions can be very easily manipulated.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• chat
• comment
• communication
• conference
• consultation
• debate
• discussion
• exchange
• gossip
• hearing
• observation
• questioning
• remark
• speech
• talk
• visit