breakout session

noun

plural breakout sessions
: a presentation, discussion, or activity that takes place as part of a larger event (such as a conference, convention, or seminar) and for which some of the event's participants temporarily separate themselves from the others
Wednesday's workshop will include two panel discussions … followed by a breakout session with audience input.Robert Miller
With so many attendees, breakout sessions are essential for one-on-one contact.Phaedra Hise

Examples of breakout session in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lawson prepares for life in F1’s toughest seat Red Bull did more media than any other team ahead of F1 75 Live, holding a quick news conference before breakout sessions with Max Verstappen, Lawson and team principal Christian Horner. Luke Smith, The Athletic, 22 Feb. 2025 Prospective speakers can submit a nomination form to be considered to deliver one of several keynote addresses or lead an informative breakout session during the event. Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025 The multi-day event features life-changing keynote addresses, dynamic breakout sessions for men and women, fellowship, and can’t-miss musical performances. Dominique Fluker, Essence, 28 Jan. 2025 These are emphasized during morning meetings, breakout sessions and two longer weekly gatherings, during which participants critique one another’s community behaviors. Jan Hoffman, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025 There will also be breakout sessions for those with Parkinson’s and their care partners. Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Jan. 2025 Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions and discuss hypothetical scenarios in breakout sessions, Rubio said. Gina Lee Castro, Journal Sentinel, 12 Dec. 2024 Many software companies will showcase new product releases, teach breakout sessions and give you a heads up on what is coming next. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024 The day included a breakfast, luncheon, breakout sessions and moderated panels. Ryan Murphy, The Indianapolis Star, 16 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breakout session was in 1979

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Cite this Entry

“Breakout session.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breakout%20session. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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