informal

adjective

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

informality

(ˌ)in-(ˌ)fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē 

-fər-

noun

informally

(ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-mə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of informal

• unconventional

Examples of informal in a Sentence

We had an informal meeting over lunch.

He has an informal manner that puts people at ease.

He spoke to them in informal Spanish.

The term is common in informal contexts.

He took an informal poll among his coworkers.

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the years, the store has evolved into an informal community hub where customers gather, exchange news and help one another navigate life in Colorado. — Sara Rosenthal, Denver Post, 11 Oct. 2026

Inspectors general often conduct informal inquiries into complaints against staffers and many times those inquiries do not result in a full-on investigation, which can result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. — Matthew Lee, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2026

The mood was informal and chatty; Weyers and another member ate takeout noodles. — Shayla Love, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026

Slota’s prosecution is the latest linked to an informal but growing gun fandom on the far Left. — Hudson Crozier, The Washington Examiner, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for informal

• abnormal
• conformal
• lognormal
• subnormal
• formal
• formyl
• orthonormal
• paranormal
• supernormal

Kids Definition

informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal (ˈ)in-ˈfȯr-məl 

1

: not formal

an informal party

2

: suited for ordinary or everyday use

informal clothes

informality

ˌin-(ˌ)fȯr-ˈmal-ət-ē 

-fər-

noun

informally

(ˈ)in-ˈfȯr-mə-lē 

adverb

Legal Definition

informal

adjective

in·​for·​mal

: marked by the absence of required forms or procedures or by the relaxation of prescribed rules

an informal hearing