noun
colloquy
KOL-uh-kwee
Colloquy (noun) means a formal conversation or dialogue. Example: “The two scholars held a long colloquy on the nature of language.”
noun
1
formal A formal conversation or dialogue.
"The two scholars held a long colloquy on the nature of language."
"Their colloquy lasted well into the evening."
"The novel ends with a quiet colloquy between mother and daughter."
2
formal In law, a discussion during a trial in which the judge checks that the defendant understands the proceedings and their rights.
"Before accepting the plea, the judge held a colloquy with the defendant."
"The colloquy made sure she understood her rights."
How to use colloquy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal conversation or dialogue between people.
When to use it
It is a formal word, more at home in writing than in everyday speech.
Memory tip
Do not confuse it with colloquial, which describes informal language.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a lengthy colloquy
a colloquy between
hold a colloquy
a judicial colloquy
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The two scholars held a long _____ on the nature of language.
Etymology
The word came into English via Middle English from the Latin colloquium, meaning conversation. That Latin word combines com-, meaning together or with, and a form of loquor, meaning to speak. Colloquium is a doublet of colloquy.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for colloquy
See all rhymes for colloquy →Frequently asked questions
What does colloquy mean?
A colloquy is a formal conversation or dialogue. In law it can also mean a discussion in which a judge checks that a defendant understands a trial.
How do you pronounce colloquy?
In British English it is pronounced KOL-uh-kwee, with the stress on the first syllable.
What is the opposite of colloquy?
Soliloquy is given as an antonym, since a soliloquy is speech by one person rather than a conversation.
What is the meaning of colloquy?
"colloquy" (noun) means a formal conversation or dialogue.
