a meeting or conference for the public discussion of some topic especially one in which the participants form an audience and make presentations
"The university hosted a symposium on climate change where experts presented their latest research to an attentive audience."
A conference or other meeting for discussion of a topic, especially one in which the participants make presentations.
"The university hosted an international symposium on climate change where leading experts presented their latest research findings."
In plain English: A symposium is a meeting where experts gather to discuss and share ideas about specific topics.
"The university hosted an international symposium on climate change last week to discuss new research findings."
Usage: A symposium is typically an academic or professional gathering where experts present papers on specific topics rather than engaging in open debate like a roundtable. Use this term to describe formal conferences with structured sessions instead of casual discussions or general meetings.
The word symposium entered English through Latin and originates in Ancient Greek, where it literally meant a drinking party. It is formed from the roots for "together" and "to drink," reflecting its original purpose as a social gathering centered on shared libations.