By Jody Long Wondering what to name your next gathering? Are you tired of calling it the same thing as last year? There are many synonyms for “event”, and it may be helpful in your next brainstorming session to know what the different terms mean. Having a creative but professional name for your event will tell your attendees "this isn't another boring meeting!" It may even help attract new guests. Here is a list of commonly used terms; they're official meaning according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, and when they can be best used: Summit Dictionary definition: The highest level, as of government officials. A conference or meeting of high-level leaders, usually called to shape a program of action. When to use this term:If you’re gathering the top leaders in your company or industry for a special meeting, naming it a ‘summit’ is an appropriate term. Conference Dictionary definition: A meeting for consultation, exchange of information, or discussion, especially one with a formal agenda. When to use this term:If your guests will be interacting to discuss a certain topic, you’ll want to lean towards calling it a conference. Conferences and conventions are often held for guests both inside and outside of the hosting company. Meeting Dictionary definition: The act or process or an instance of coming together; an encounter. An assembly or gathering of people, as for a business, social, or religious purpose. When to use this term:Use the term ‘meeting’ when discussions won’t be required. Meetings tend to hold less attendees than a conference or convention. Meetings also tend to be held for attendees within the same company. Meetings may be less informal, and held in-house. Symposium Dictionary definition: A meeting or conference for discussion of a topic, especially one in which the participants form an audience and make presentations. A collection of writings on a particular topic, as in a magazine. A convivial meeting for drinking, music, and intellectual discussion among the ancient Greeks. When to use this term:Do you have leaders from different areas of your industry or company gathering to discuss a topic? Will presentations be made on this same topic? Convention Dictionary definition:The summoning or convening of an assembly. When to use this term:Will you be inviting exhibitors to the event? If so, you might consider calling it a convention depending on the scale. Event Dictionary definition: Anything that takes place or happens, especially something important; happening; incident. When to use this term:When your gathering doesn’t quite fall into any of the above categories, using the term ‘event’ isn’t settling. This term will still set the right tone.