# plenary

/ˈpɫɛnɝi/ (US) · /plˈiːnəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/plenary
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a meeting or session where everyone is expected to attend, rather than just a small group. It is often used for the main parts of a big conference.

For teachers: relating to a session or assembly attended by all participants or members of a body. Often used to distinguish full-group meetings from smaller breakout sessions or committees.

## Examples

- The conference starts with a plenary session for all guests.
- After the morning workshops, the delegates gathered in the main hall for the final plenary discussion.
- The committee's recommendations must be ratified during the plenary assembly before they can be formally adopted into the organization's bylaws.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before nouns like 'session', 'meeting', or 'assembly'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.