topic

noun

top·​ic ˈtä-pik 

1

a

: the subject of a discourse or of a section of a discourse

b

: a heading in an outlined argument or exposition

2

a

: argument, reason

b

: one of the general forms of argument employed in probable reasoning

Synonyms of topic

• theme
• matter
• subject
• question
• motif

Examples of topic in a Sentence

He is comfortable discussing a wide range of topics.

topics such as health and fitness

Recent Examples on the Web

During the following years that marked his rise to media stardom, Jamal emerged a national media figure representing the Somali position on a wide range of topics, including overseas piracy and the representation of Somalis in mass media. — Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 5 Oct. 2026

The topic was discussed back in 2015, at which time the city considered asking Aurora to remove the gate and allow traffic to use the subdivision’s south exit. — Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2026

Different views on the topic Republicans have structural advantages that could limit Democratic gains. — Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 2026

The topic of Brazil's relationship with the United States is sure to feature in second-round campaigning, as are domestic themes of security policy, corruption, and the economy, which polls say are top of voters' minds. — Catherine Osborn, NPR, 4 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin Topica Topics (work by Aristotle), from Greek Topika, from topika, neuter plural of topikos of a place, of a topos, from topos place, topos

First Known Use

circa 1569, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Phrases Containing topic

• sub-topic
• topic of discussion
• topic sentence

Rhymes for topic

• tropic
• adrenocorticotropic
• allotropic
• arthroscopic
• barotropic
• cystoscopic
• endoscopic
• gyroscopic
• hygroscopic
• isentropic
• isotopic
• isotropic

Kids Definition

topic

noun

top·​ic ˈtäp-ik 

1

: a heading in an outline of a subject or explanation

2

: the subject or a section of a subject (as of a speech or a report)