Symposium
/sɪmˈpoʊziəm/
Definitions
2 meaningsA formal meeting at which several experts deliver short addresses on a topic or on related topics.
/sɪmˈpoʊziəm/
A conference or meeting to discuss a particular subject.
The annual medical symposium attracts doctors and researchers from around the world.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big meeting where smart people get together to talk about one important thing. Like, if everyone who loves cats had a big talk about cats, that's kind of like a symposium!
👶 For kids: A big meeting where people talk about something they all care about!
More Examples
The art museum held a symposium to discuss modern art trends.
Scholars gathered for a symposium on ancient philosophy.
How It's Used
"The university hosted an international symposium on climate change."
"She presented her research at a business symposium for industry leaders."
A collection of essays or articles on a single subject by different writers.
/sɪmˈpoʊziəm/
A collection of writings on a particular topic.
The journal published a symposium featuring articles on sustainable energy.
💡 Simply: Think of a book where lots of experts write about the same idea, each sharing their own thoughts. It’s like a bunch of smart people writing about one topic.
👶 For kids: A book with lots of stories about one thing!
More Examples
The anthology contained a symposium of essays by leading historians.
The book served as a symposium on the latest advancements in the field.
How It's Used
"The anthology served as a symposium on the works of the poet."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Greek *sumposion* meaning "drinking party, convivial meeting," related to *sum-*, meaning "together," and *posis*, meaning "a drinking." Historically, it referred to a gathering of intellectuals for discussion and entertainment. Its meaning evolved to encompass formal academic conferences.
Historically, the term referred to a convivial drinking party with intellectual conversation, a custom originating in ancient Greece. The term was used to signify a gathering of intellectuals. Plato's *Symposium* is a famous example. The modern usage evolved to reflect formal academic settings.
Memory tip
Think of a 'sim' of people discussing a specific 'pose' at a formal gathering (symposium).
Word Origin
"drinking party, convivial meeting"