1 consultation, discussion.
2 a meeting for discussion, esp. a regular one held by an association or organization.
3 an annual assembly of the Methodist Church.
4 an association in commerce, sport, etc.
5 the linking of several telephones, computer terminals, etc., so that each user may communicate with the others simultaneously.
Phrases and idioms:
in conference engaged in discussion.
Derivatives:
conferential adj.
Etymology: F confeacuterence or med.L conferentia (as confer)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.