Definition of discourse

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< discouragement

discourteous >

dis·course    (dskôrs, -krs) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Verbal expression in speech or writing.
2. Verbal exchange; conversation.
3. A formal, lengthy discussion of a subject, either written or spoken.
4. Archaic The process or power of reasoning.

VERB:
dis·coursed, dis·cours·ing, dis·cours·es (d-skôrs, -skrs)
VERB:
intr.

1. To speak or write formally and at length. See Synonyms at speak.
2. To engage in conversation or discussion; converse.

VERB:
tr.
Archaic

To narrate or discuss.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English discours, process of reasoning, from Medieval Latin discursus, from Latin, a running about, from past participle of discurrere, to run about : dis-, apart ; see dis- + currere, to run; see kers- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
dis·courser(Noun)