informal
adjective
in·for·mal
(ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl 
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
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
Breakfasts and informal suppers unfold in the Brasserie, which has an orangery, and a terrace for sunny mornings.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2026
At the same time, the WHO urged countries not to close their borders or restrict travel and trade out of fear, as this could lead to people and goods making informal border crossings that are not monitored.
—Reuters, CNN Money, 17 May 2026
The size and growth habit depend on the species, some bottlebrushes are dense and compact, lending themselves to be grown as informal hedges, whereas others are sparse and open and can be pruned into a small tree.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 17 May 2026
Young players develop creativity and instinct through informal street and neighborhood games long before entering organized systems.
—Clemente Lisi, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for informal
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2026
At the same time, the WHO urged countries not to close their borders or restrict travel and trade out of fear, as this could lead to people and goods making informal border crossings that are not monitored.
—Reuters, CNN Money, 17 May 2026
The size and growth habit depend on the species, some bottlebrushes are dense and compact, lending themselves to be grown as informal hedges, whereas others are sparse and open and can be pruned into a small tree.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 17 May 2026
Young players develop creativity and instinct through informal street and neighborhood games long before entering organized systems.
—Clemente Lisi, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for informal
Cite this Entry
“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 20 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
informal
adjective
in·for·mal
(ˈ)in-ˈfȯr-məl
1
: not formal
an informal party
2
: suited for ordinary or everyday use
informal clothes
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