in·for·mal
(ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl
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
1
: the quality or state of being informal : lack of regular, prescribed, or customary form
wayside camps, where the informality of hardships loosened tongues—Mabel R. Gillis
everyday speech in all its informality and ease—R. A. Hall, born 1911
2
: an informal act or proceeding
the wedding ceremony was enlivened by several unexpected informalities
Cite this Entry
“Informal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/informal. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
