noun
Uncommon
symposium
sihm-POH-zee-uhm
Symposium (noun) means a formal meeting or conference where experts give presentations and discuss a topic. Example: “She presented her research at an international symposium on climate science.”
noun
1
A formal meeting or conference where experts give presentations and discuss a topic.
"She presented her research at an international symposium on climate science."
"Doctors from many countries gathered at the symposium to share new ideas."
"The university is hosting a symposium on language teaching next spring."
2
A published collection of essays or papers on a single subject by different contributors.
"The book began as a symposium of essays on modern ethics."
"The journal published a symposium on city planning, with essays from six writers."
"I found a useful article in a symposium on childhood education."
How to use symposium
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA conference or gathering, usually academic, where people present and discuss ideas.
Common pairings
attend a symposium
host a symposium
a symposium on
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Word forms
- Plural
- symposiums, symposia
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She presented her research at an international _____ on climate science.
Etymology
From Greek symposion, "drinking party," from syn- ("together") + pinein ("to drink") — ancient Greek gatherings for wine and philosophical discussion.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for symposium
See all rhymes for symposium →Frequently asked questions
What does “symposium” mean?
The word “symposium” means a formal meeting or conference where experts give presentations and discuss a topic. In plain terms, a conference or gathering, usually academic, where people present and discuss ideas.
How do you pronounce “symposium”?
“Symposium” is pronounced sihm-POH-zee-uhm (/sɪmˈpoʊziəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “symposium” in a sentence?
Here is “symposium” used in a sentence: “She presented her research at an international symposium on climate science.”
What part of speech is “symposium”?
“Symposium” is a noun.
Where does the word “symposium” come from?
The word “symposium” comes from Ancient Greek. From Greek symposion, "drinking party," from syn- ("together") + pinein ("to drink") — ancient Greek gatherings for wine and philosophical discussion.
Is “symposium” a common word?
“Symposium” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “symposium” have?
“Symposium” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal meeting or conference where experts give presentations and discuss a topic.
What is the difference between a symposium and a conference?
A symposium is typically a formal meeting focused on presentations and discussion of a specific topic by experts, often smaller and more focused than a general conference. A conference tends to be broader in scope, covering many topics or sessions across a field. Symposium also carries a more academic or scholarly connotation.
What is the difference between a symposium and a seminar?
A symposium usually involves multiple experts presenting and discussing a shared topic before an audience, resembling a panel format. A seminar is often smaller and more interactive, centered on teaching or in-depth discussion led by one presenter or a small group. Symposium implies more formal, structured presentations.
Can symposium refer to a publication rather than an event?
Yes, symposium can also mean a published collection of essays or papers on a single subject written by different contributors, not just a live meeting. This usage is common in academic publishing, where a journal issue or book is described as a symposium on a particular theme.
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