Discourse

Quick meaning: Discourse is a noun meaning (uncountable, archaic) Verbal exchange, conversation.

Meaning

(uncountable, archaic) Verbal exchange, conversation.

More Meanings

1. (uncountable) Expression in words, either speech or writing.
2. (countable) A conversation.
3. (countable) A formal lengthy exposition of some subject, either spoken or written.
4. (countable) Any rational expression, reason.
5. (social sciences, countable) An institutionalized way of thinking, a social boundary defining what can be said about a specific topic (after Michel Foucault).
6. (Internet, uncountable) Lengthy, often heated debate over controversial subject matter, particularly within fandom and activist spaces. Sometimes rendered as a proper noun with the definite article (i.e. "the Discourse").
7. (obsolete) Dealing; transaction.

Example Sentences

The preacher gave us a long discourse on duty.

difficult, strange, and harsh to the discourses of natural reason

Sure he that made us with such large discourse, / Looking before and after, gave us not / That capability and godlike reason / To rust in us unused.

UUho when he ſhal embrace you in his arms UUil tell how many thouſand men he ſlew. And when you looke for amorous diſcourſe, Will rattle foorth his facts of war and blood: […]

Word Forms

• discourses
• discours
• discoursing
• discoursed

Synonyms for discourse

Depending on context, synonyms include communication, expression, debate, conversation, discussion, talk.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include discussion, converse, discuss, sermon, preaching, treatment.

Related Dictionary Tools