verb / noun
talk
TAWK/tɔːk/
Communication through speaking.
Two adults talk face-to-face, using gestures as they speak.
Etymology
Middle English talken already meant “speak” or “discourse.” It was probably a diminutive or frequentative formation related to tale, whose older meanings included information and the act of telling, not just stories.
In context
Why do you feel like that? Talk to me a little bit about what that feeling is like.
More examples
- We talked about our plans for the weekend.
- Can we have a quick talk before dinner?
- The nurse gives a talk about healthy sleep habits.
- She's talking to her sister on the phone.
Forms
talk · talks · talked · talking
talker noun — Someone who talks, especially a lot.
talkative adjective — Fond of talking a lot.
Similar words
- speak
- Focuses on producing words, not necessarily exchanging ideas.
- chat
- Suggests informal, relaxed conversation rather than serious discussion.
- conversation
- Usually involves an exchange rather than one person's speech.