conversation
/ˌkɒnvərˈseɪʃən/
noun
Origin
Latin
conversari — to associate with, to turn about with
Overview
Meaning Now
- A talk, especially an informal one, between two or more people, in which news and ideas are exchanged.
Literal older meaning
turning about with another
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
conversacioun
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, 'conversation' did not necessarily imply speech. It often referred to one's 'manner of living' or 'conduct' in society. By the 18th century, the word had transitioned almost exclusively to the act of verbal communication.
Evolution
- Latin
conversatio
“manner of living, association, intercourse”
- Old French
conversacion
“manner of living, behavior”
- Middle English
conversacioun
“behavior, manner of living, social intercourse”
- Early Modern English
conversation
“talk, dialogue”
Meaning shifted from 'general conduct' to 'verbal exchange'.
Connections
Word parts
con-
prefix
together
vers-
root
to turn
-ation
suffix
process or condition
Related across languages
French
conversation
Spanish
conversación
conversation
Explore next
Related to conversation
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.