noun

conference

KAHN-fur-uns/ˈkɑːnfərəns/

A meeting for discussion or exchange of information.

At the conference, participants listen to a speaker and ask questions.

A formal conference in a bright meeting room with several rows of seated adult participants listening to a speaker who gestures at a large simple unlabeled diagram of connected shapes; a second participant asks a question.

Etymology

conLatintogether, with

+ferLatinbear, carry

+enceLatinact or state

The roots mean “carry together,” behind a verb meaning “bring together” and “deliberate.” Conference first named the act of consulting together, then a formal meeting devoted to discussion or exchanging information.

In context

Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness0:21

a really Lively and wonderful discussion we have some great presenters today um this is a really fabulous conference

Can They Do That? Understanding and Protecting Tenants Rights in Connecticut

More examples

The teacher schedules a conference with the student's parents.
Scientists share their latest findings at the annual conference.
The mayor answers reporters' questions at a press conference.

Forms

conference · conferences

confer verb — Discuss something with another person.

Similar words

meeting: A broader term for people gathering for any shared purpose.
consultation: Emphasizes seeking advice or discussing a particular problem.
convention: Usually a large organized gathering of people with shared interests.