informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal (ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
1
: marked by the absence of formality or ceremony
an informal meeting
2
: characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary, casual, or familiar use
informal clothes
informality noun
informally adverb

Examples of informal in a Sentence

We had an informal meeting over lunch. He has an informal manner that puts people at ease. He spoke to them in informal Spanish. The term is common in informal contexts. He took an informal poll among his coworkers.
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.
These open-branching shrubs make an informal hedge that requires little pruning. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2025 In an informal presentation Monday to the Planning and Zoning Commission, Evjen and his consultants said the project would cluster the condos and parking to provide acreage for a wide conservation easement around the pond. Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 25 Apr. 2025 Reznick and some former Video Game Writers Caucus members continue to hold informal group meetings. Simon Abrams, HollywoodReporter, 25 Apr. 2025 The group would stage a total of six informal shows by the end of 1969: three in Chicago and one apiece in San Francisco, New York, and Washington, DC. News Desk, Artforum, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for informal

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of informal was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

informal

adjective
in·​for·​mal (ˈ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
1
: not formal
an informal party
2
: suited for ordinary or everyday use
informal clothes
informality noun
informally adverb

Legal Definition

informal

adjective
in·​for·​mal
: marked by the absence of required forms or procedures or by the relaxation of prescribed rules
an informal hearing

More from Merriam-Webster on informal

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