informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal (ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
Synonyms of informalnext
1
: marked by the absence of formality or ceremony
an informal meeting
2
: characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary, casual, or familiar use
informal clothes
informality noun
informally adverb

Examples of informal in a Sentence

We had an informal meeting over lunch. He has an informal manner that puts people at ease. He spoke to them in informal Spanish. The term is common in informal contexts. He took an informal poll among his coworkers.
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.
Even informal conversations can shift your perspective and reveal gaps in your own development. Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026 Depending on the publication and genre, magazine journalists may adopt an informal tone, first-person narration, or conversational language. Encyclopedia Britannica, 21 May 2026 Bodega owners, many of whom operate on thin profit margins, have similarly voiced concern that city-run sites could undercut neighborhood businesses that have long served as informal food anchors in working-class communities, warning of potential job losses and store closures if the model expands. Nandika Chatterjee, Time, 21 May 2026 Putin meeting in contrast Xi's meeting with Putin over the last few days has been a more informal affair, with the Kremlin keen to emphasize that the two-day trip was just a part of regular contact and communication between Moscow and Beijing. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for informal

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of informal was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

informal

adjective
in·​for·​mal (ˈ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
1
: not formal
an informal party
2
: suited for ordinary or everyday use
informal clothes
informality noun
informally adverb

Legal Definition

informal

adjective
in·​for·​mal
: marked by the absence of required forms or procedures or by the relaxation of prescribed rules
an informal hearing

More from Merriam-Webster on informal

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster