Synonyms of conversation
1
a(1)
: oral exchange of sentiments, observations, opinions, or ideas
… we had talk enough but no conversation; there was nothing discussed.—Samuel Johnson
(2)
: an instance of such exchange : talk
a quiet conversation
b
: an informal discussion of an issue by representatives of governments, institutions, or groups
conversations among the senators
c
: an exchange similar to conversation
We had a conversation by email.
2
obsolete : conduct, behavior
conversationally adverb

Examples of conversation in a Sentence

Do you remember our conversation about that new movie? We got into a long conversation about his behavior. They were engaged in a lengthy conversation about politics. The topic came up in conversation. They were so deep in conversation that they barely noticed me. He kept trying to engage me in conversation. She's skilled in the art of conversation. an interesting topic of conversation We had a conversation by e-mail.
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.
Previously, this would have been a conversation that would have taken several years. — Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026 Jo, who is still desperately trying to earn her orange back, and more power to her, brings Alexis over to Heather for another pointless conversation. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2026 Leo July 23 – August 22 A family conversation or home decision may need more patience than expected today. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Oct. 2026 March 21 – April 19 A conversation with someone important may require a little recalibration today. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conversation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English conversacioun, from Anglo-French conversacion, from Latin conversation-, conversatio, from conversari to associate with, frequentative of convertere to turn around

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of conversation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conversation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conversation. Accessed 12 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

conversation

noun
: talking or a talk between two or more people
conversational adjective
conversationally
-ē
adverb
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