topic

noun

top·​ic ˈtä-pik How to pronounce topic (audio)
Synonyms of topicnext
1
a
: the subject of a discourse or of a section of a discourse
b
: a heading in an outlined argument or exposition
2
b
: one of the general forms of argument employed in probable reasoning

Examples of topic in a Sentence

He is comfortable discussing a wide range of topics. topics such as health and fitness
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.
But third, and equally important, a successful book for general audiences ensures that scholars in other fields also learn that the topic exists. Literary Hub, 20 May 2026 But my movies are about human beings, and once there is a human being at the center, the topics will always be the same. Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 19 May 2026 Trying to usher along Caglianone and simultaneously seeking to seize the day don’t have to be mutually exclusive, of course — a topic in itself for another time. Kansas City Star, 19 May 2026 On The Fringe analyzes the biggest topics in golf during the season. ABC News, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for topic

Word History

Etymology

Latin Topica Topics (work by Aristotle), from Greek Topika, from topika, neuter plural of topikos of a place, of a topos, from topos place, topos

First Known Use

circa 1569, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Time Traveler
The first known use of topic was circa 1569

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Topic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topic. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

topic

noun
top·​ic ˈtäp-ik How to pronounce topic (audio)
1
: a heading in an outline of a subject or explanation
2
: the subject or a section of a subject (as of a speech or a report)

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