consultation
UK: ˌkɒnsəlˈteɪʃən | US: ˌkɑːnsəlˈteɪʃən
n. a formal meeting to discuss or seek advice on a matter
n. the act of consulting or seeking expert opinion
n. (medical) a session with a specialist for diagnosis or treatment
The word "consultation" derives from Latin consultare, meaning "to deliberate or take counsel." The root consult preserves the original sense of seeking advice, while the suffix -ation transforms the verb into a noun denoting the process or result of consulting. Historically, the term evolved through Old French (consultacion) before entering English, retaining its core meaning of collaborative decision-making.
The committee scheduled a consultation to review the new policy.
She booked a consultation with a dermatologist for her skin condition.
Public consultations are essential for transparent governance.
The lawyer offered a free 30-minute consultation to discuss the case.
After thorough consultation, the team finalized the project plan.