Synonyms of conversation
1
a(1)
: oral exchange of sentiments, observations, opinions, or ideas
… we had talk enough but no conversation; there was nothing discussed.—Samuel Johnson
(2)
: an instance of such exchange : talk
a quiet conversation
b
: an informal discussion of an issue by representatives of governments, institutions, or groups
conversations among the senators
c
: an exchange similar to conversation
We had a conversation by email.
2
obsolete : conduct, behavior
conversationally adverb

Examples of conversation in a Sentence

Do you remember our conversation about that new movie? We got into a long conversation about his behavior. They were engaged in a lengthy conversation about politics. The topic came up in conversation. They were so deep in conversation that they barely noticed me. He kept trying to engage me in conversation. She's skilled in the art of conversation. an interesting topic of conversation We had a conversation by e-mail.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Something could come together quietly through a helpful conversation, a small favor, or someone giving you useful information without much fanfare. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026 Madelyn Cline crouched on the floor to chat with a seated Quen Blackwell, while nearby, Zoe Saldaña and Katie Couric were deep in conversation. — Kelsey Stewart, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026 The students maintain that the conversations consisted largely of deliberately provocative jokes, internet memes and political exaggerations that were never intended as genuine threats. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026 This conversation is worthwhile regardless of where your family lives. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conversation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English conversacioun, from Anglo-French conversacion, from Latin conversation-, conversatio, from conversari to associate with, frequentative of convertere to turn around

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of conversation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conversation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conversation. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

conversation

noun
: talking or a talk between two or more people
conversational adjective
conversationally
-ē
adverb
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