informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal (ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
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 Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, the pair who play former special agents Anthony DiNozzo and Ziva David in the upcoming NCIS: Tony and Ziva, will join Paramount Global for an informal press breakfast at MIPCOM next month. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 27 Sep. 2024 One is described as a former, informal political consultant to Trump's campaign. Katherine Faulders, ABC News, 27 Sep. 2024 The first, an informal shot photographed by Demarchelier, was a black-and-white image of Diana playing with her sons Prince William and Prince Harry in a barn at the family’s country home, Highgrove. Rachel Burchfield, Peoplemag, 26 Sep. 2024 According to reports, the student and the accused, who remains anonymous, was attending an informal gathering hosted by members of the college’s swim team at an on-campus residence at the time of the incident. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 26 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for informal 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'informal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near informal

Cite this Entry

“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 4 Oct. 2024.

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

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