discussion

noun

dis·​cus·​sion di-ˈskə-shən How to pronounce discussion (audio)
Synonyms of discussionnext
1
: consideration of a question in open and usually informal debate
a heated political discussion
2
: a formal treatment of a topic in speech or writing
A discussion on the topic is included in the first chapter.

Examples of discussion in a Sentence

The class was involved in a heated discussion about politics. I hope to have a discussion with them about the matter soon. After much discussion of the plan, the idea was rejected entirely. During the period under discussion, the town grew in size. The smoking ban is a major topic of discussion these days. The article is an in-depth discussion of his theories. The first chapter includes a discussion of childcare issues.
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.
The Royals’ preference, according to people briefed on their discussions, is to add two outfielders, one through free agency and the other through trade. Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 8 Dec. 2025 The clip, which made the rounds on social media back in August, showed Gunn and Corenswet in the midst of an impassioned discussion about Superman's motivation while facing off against his nemesis in the movie, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult). Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Dec. 2025 And look for dozens of episodes featuring genre-spanning discussions, debates, and explainers with Rolling Stone’s critics and reporters. Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 7 Dec. 2025 Treasury is already in discussions with foundations, with major philanthropists to top up these accounts. CBS News, 7 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discussion

Word History

Etymology

see discuss

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of discussion was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discussion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discussion. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

discussion

noun
dis·​cus·​sion dis-ˈkəsh-ən How to pronounce discussion (audio)
: conversation or debate for the purpose of understanding a question or subject

More from Merriam-Webster on discussion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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