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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

seminar

SEH-mih-nah

Seminar (noun) means a small class or meeting where a topic is discussed in depth, often led by an expert. Example: “The professor runs a weekly seminar on medieval history.”

noun
1
A small class or meeting where a topic is discussed in depth, often led by an expert.
"The professor runs a weekly seminar on medieval history."
"She attended a sales seminar over the weekend."

How to use seminar

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA focused discussion or teaching session, smaller and more interactive than a lecture.

Common pairings
attend a seminar lead a seminar seminar room

Word forms

seminared past tense, seminars plural, seminars singular

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Test yourself on “seminar” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The professor runs a weekly _____ on medieval history.

Etymology

From German Seminar, from Latin sēminārium, literally "seed-bed" — the same image behind "seminary."

Origin: Latin

symposium colloquium study group discussion group ovular

Related words

Rhymes for seminar

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Frequently asked questions

What does “seminar” mean?

The word “seminar” means a small class or meeting where a topic is discussed in depth, often led by an expert. In plain terms, a focused discussion or teaching session, smaller and more interactive than a lecture.

How do you pronounce “seminar”?

“Seminar” is pronounced SEH-mih-nah (/ˈsɛmɪnɑɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “seminar” in a sentence?

Here is “seminar” used in a sentence: “The professor runs a weekly seminar on medieval history.”

What is another word for “seminar”?

Words with a similar meaning to “seminar” include ovular.

What part of speech is “seminar”?

“Seminar” is a noun.

Where does the word “seminar” come from?

The word “seminar” comes from Latin. From German Seminar, from Latin sēminārium, literally "seed-bed" — the same image behind "seminary.".

Is “seminar” a common word?

“Seminar” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

What is the difference between a seminar and a lecture?

A lecture is typically a one-way presentation where an expert speaks to a large audience with little interaction. A seminar is smaller and more discussion-based, often led by an expert but involving active participation from attendees.

What is the difference between a seminar and a workshop?

A seminar centers on discussing and exploring a topic in depth, often through conversation and expert-led explanation. A workshop is generally more hands-on, focused on practicing skills or producing something rather than just discussing ideas.

How many people typically attend a seminar?

Seminars are usually small classes or meetings, in contrast to large lecture halls, which allows for meaningful discussion between the leader and participants.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial