First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
convention
noun con·ven·tion \kən-ˈven(t)-shən\
: a large meeting of people who come to a place for usually several days to talk about their shared work or other interests or to make decisions as a group
: a custom or a way of acting or doing things that is widely accepted and followed
: a traditional or common style often used in literature, theater, or art to create a particular effect
Full Definition of CONVENTION
1
a : agreement, contract b : an agreement between states for regulation of matters affecting all of them c : a compact between opposing commanders especially concerning prisoner exchange or armistice d : a general agreement about basic principles or procedures; also : a principle or procedure accepted as true or correct by convention
2
a : the summoning or convening of an assembly b : an assembly of persons met for a common purpose; especially : a meeting of the delegates of a political party for the purpose of formulating a platform and selecting candidates for office c : the usually state or national organization of a religious denomination
3
a : usage or custom especially in social matters b : a rule of conduct or behavior c : a practice in bidding or playing that conveys information between partners in a card game (as bridge) d : an established technique, practice, or device (as in the theater)
See convention defined for English-language learners
See convention defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CONVENTION
Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin convention-, conventio, from convenire
Related to CONVENTION
- Synonyms
- assembly, congress, meeting, convocation, council, gathering, get-together, huddle, powwow
Rhymes with CONVENTION
CONVENTION Defined for Kids
convention
noun con·ven·tion \kən-ˈven-chən\
Definition of CONVENTION for Kids
1
: a meeting of people for a common purpose <a teachers' convention>
2
: a custom or a way of acting and doing things that is widely accepted and followed <Follow the conventions of punctuation in your writing.>
3
: agreement 3 <a convention among nations>
Learn More About CONVENTION
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: conventionalPrevious Word in the Dictionary: conventicularAll Words Near: convention
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up convention? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).