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.
The weakening of the informal sector and the care economy dependent on women contributes significantly to such a breakdown, as programs to support women's health and rights are stopped. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025 Salvini’s call was accompanied by mob violence, mass evictions and demolition of Roma informal camps set up in the streets. Ronald Niezen, The Conversation, 29 Jan. 2025 This is a relaxed, informal affair, a few friends coming over for food, the kind of people who have seen me in soft clothes. Amiel Stanek, Bon Appétit, 29 Jan. 2025 Baby Athena joins an informal club of family members with the middle name Elizabeth, as many of the late Queen's descendants share the same moniker! Janine Henni, People.com, 29 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near informal

Cite this Entry

“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 6 Feb. 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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