Daily Word Box

Install Daily Word Box: tap Share, then Add to Home Screen.

Word

gathering

noun C1
UK /ˈɡæð.ə.ɹɪŋ/
US /ˈɡæð.ɚ.ɪŋ/

Meanings

noun

a meeting or event where a group of people come together

gathering: a meeting or event where a group of people come together
noun

the act or process of collecting or bringing things together

gathering: the act or process of collecting or bringing things together
noun

a fold or pleat in fabric created by drawing it together

gathering: a fold or pleat in fabric created by drawing it together

Definition

A gathering is a social event where people come together in one place for a shared purpose.

A gathering is an occasion when people meet, usually for social, cultural, or family reasons. It can be formal, like an official reception, or informal, like friends meeting at someone’s home. The word often focuses on the event itself rather than the action of coming together.

Examples

  • Our team organized a small gathering after the conference to keep the conversation going.
  • She left the gathering early because she needed a quiet evening to recharge.
  • I enjoyed the gathering, but I found it hard to speak over the music in that crowded room.
  • They turned the backyard into a relaxed gathering space with lanterns, benches, and simple food.
  • You could tell the gathering meant a lot to him from how carefully he introduced everyone.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse gathering (the event) with meeting (often more formal and work-focused) and use them interchangeably in professional contexts.