Meeting

Definition

Meeting is a noun that refers to a gathering of people for a particular purpose, such as discussion, decision-making, or planning. It can also describe the event of two or more people encountering each other. As a verb (the present participle of "meet"), it refers to the act of coming together or assembling.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "meet")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmiːtɪŋ/
• Respelling: MEE-ting

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmiːtɪŋ/
• Respelling: MEE-ting

Etymology

The word "meeting" originates from the Old English "mētan," meaning "to come together" or "to encounter." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*motjanan," which relates to assembly or gathering. The modern noun form developed in Middle English.

Derivatives

• Meet (verb)
• Meetinghouse (noun)
• Meet-up (noun, informal)
• Pre-meeting (noun)
• Post-meeting (noun)

Synonyms

• Gathering
• Assembly
• Conference

Antonyms

• Separation
• Division
• Isolation

Usage

The term "meeting" is widely used in professional, social, and informal contexts. For example, "The team held a meeting to discuss the project" indicates a formal gathering for discussion, while "Their chance meeting at the park was unexpected" highlights an incidental encounter.

Related Terms

• Conference: A formal meeting for discussion.
• Appointment: A scheduled time to meet or assemble.
• Encounter: An unplanned or chance meeting.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A gathering of people for discussion or decision-making: Refers to a formal or informal assembly.
  • Example: "The board scheduled a meeting to finalize the budget."
• An encounter between two or more individuals: Refers to a chance or planned interaction.
  • Example: "Their first meeting was unforgettable."
• An event where participants come together for a purpose: Encompasses a wide variety of gatherings, from corporate events to social get-togethers.
  • Example: "The meeting was productive and ended on a positive note."

Verb (present participle of "meet")

• The act of coming together or assembling: Refers to the process of gathering or encountering.
  • Example: "They are meeting to discuss the next steps in the project."