topic

noun

top·​ic ˈtä-pik How to pronounce topic (audio)
Synonyms of topicnext
1
a
: the subject of a discourse or of a section of a discourse
b
: a heading in an outlined argument or exposition
2
a
: argument, reason
b
: one of the general forms of argument employed in probable reasoning

Synonyms of topic

Relevance
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Examples of topic in a Sentence

He is comfortable discussing a wide range of topics. topics such as health and fitness
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.
However, a June 2026 study put the topic back in the spotlight. — Dannell D. Boatman, The Conversation, 8 July 2026 This article outlines engagement topics for each company and ends with a call to action. — Bhakti Mirchandani, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 These new developments also make more urgent the topic of my conversation with Shannon. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 8 July 2026 Among them is the viral handbag brand Songmont, whose podcast asks famous directors or actors to discuss topics like self-acceptance and creativity in contemplative two-hour episodes. — CNN Money, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for topic

Word History

Etymology

Latin Topica Topics (work by Aristotle), from Greek Topika, from topika, neuter plural of topikos of a place, of a topos, from topos place, topos

First Known Use

circa 1569, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Time Traveler
The first known use of topic was circa 1569

Phrases Containing topic

Rhymes for topic

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Browse Nearby Words

topiary
topic
topical
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Cite this Entry

“Topic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topic. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

topic

noun
top·​ic ˈtäp-ik How to pronounce topic (audio)
1
: a heading in an outline of a subject or explanation
2
: the subject or a section of a subject (as of a speech or a report)

More from Merriam-Webster on topic

Nglish: Translation of topic for Spanish Speakers

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