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.
Different views on the topic Lombardo’s case is that his administration has delivered on state priorities and that his agenda addresses affordability, housing, health care and education. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026 This includes threats to withdraw federal funding and initiation of new investigations against campuses that do not comply with the federal government’s agenda on topics like antisemitism and diversity, equity and inclusion. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 25 Oct. 2026 Despite these figures, the economy has not been a central theme in the campaign topic – until this weekend, when Netanyahu moved it to the top of the agenda. — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2026 With the holidays approaching, more people may have to muster smiles with family if sensitive topics like politics and religion come up. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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)
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