Meaning & Definition of word "Conclave"

Conclave

/ˈkɒŋ.kleɪv/

noun:

  • 1. A private meeting or assembly, especially one for the purpose of electing a leader or making decisions.
    • Example: The board members held a conclave to discuss the company's future direction.
  • 2. A gathering of cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church for the election of the pope.
    • Example: The conclave convened in secrecy to choose the new pope.
  • 3. Any private or secret meeting.
    • Example: The scientific conclave aimed to address pressing environmental issues.

Etymology

From Latin 'conclavis', meaning 'locked room'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

secret conclave:

A clandestine meeting for private discussions.

papal conclave:

A meeting of the College of Cardinals to elect a new pope.

conclave of leaders:

A gathering of influential figures to make decisions.

Related Words

synod:

An assembly of church officials for the purpose of discussion and decision-making.

convocation:

A large formal assembly of people, especially in a school or university.

forum:

A meeting or medium where ideas and views on a particular issue can be exchanged.

Slang Meanings of conclave

Meaning: A secret meeting among powerful individuals.

Example Sentence: They called it a conclave when the CEOs met away from the public eye.

Meaning: An exclusive gathering with select members.

Example Sentence: The tech conclave brought together the brightest minds in Silicon Valley.