informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal (ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl How to pronounce informal (audio)
Synonyms of informalnext
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.
The Concepción suburbs most affected by the blaze are a hot spot for loose building regulations and informal and rented housing, said Alvaro Hofflinger, a social vulnerability expert at Arizona State University who grew up in Chile. Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026 After traveling to Cyprus for an informal European Union leaders’ summit, Macron visited the Greek capital to renew a 2021 defense partnership between France and Greece that includes a mutual assistance clause in case of an armed attack against either. ABC News, 25 Apr. 2026 At the event guests had the opportunity to encounter Alice, enjoy boutique shopping, and indulge in teas, pastries, tea sandwiches, champagne, live music, and informal modeling. Rancho Santa Fe Review, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026 The Vatican’s 2023 declaration allowing an informal blessing, promulgated with virtually no consultation outside the Vatican, sharply divided the church, with African bishops delivering a continent-wide dissent and refusing to implement it. Nicole Winfield, Fortune, 23 Apr. 2026 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 2 May. 2026.

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

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