conference
UK: ˈkɒnf(ə)r(ə)ns | US: ˈkɑːnfərəns
n. a formal meeting for discussion or debate
n. an association of sports teams or other groups
n. the act of conferring or consulting
Derived from Latin conferre (to bring together), combining con- (together) and ferre (to carry). The word evolved through Old French conference to Middle English, retaining its core idea of "bringing people together for discussion." The morpheme fer- appears in related words like "refer" (carry back) and "transfer" (carry across), emphasizing movement or exchange.
The annual tech conference attracts innovators worldwide.
She presented her research at an academic conference.
The Ivy League is a prestigious athletic conference.
The manager called a conference to address the issue.
Online conferences have become more common since 2020.