What does social mean?
Social is a versatile word describing anything connected with people, communities, or relationships. An event may be social because it brings people together, while social issues concern conditions affecting society as a whole. In everyday use, describing someone as social means that they are comfortable meeting others and participating in gatherings. As an informal noun, a social is a party or similar gathering, especially one held at a school, workplace, or community venue. The adverb socially is used in expressions such as “socially awkward,” meaning awkward in situations involving other people, and “socially isolated,” meaning separated from ordinary community life. The word is especially common in compounds including social event, social media, social network, and social services. Historically, its idea of companionship remains visible in the contrast between social and antisocial.
Relating to society, community life, or interaction among people; friendly and comfortable in the company of others.
"The discussion focused on social issues affecting local families."
The sense meaning friendly and outgoing is informal and commonly used to describe a person who enjoys gatherings. Other senses are common in formal and institutional contexts, as in social policy, social services, and social media.
An informal gathering at which people meet and socialize.
"There will be a social for parents and students after the exhibition."
This noun is informal and is particularly common in British English and in institutional settings such as schools, workplaces, clubs, and community organizations.
In a social manner or with regard to social interaction.
"He felt socially awkward at the large family celebration."
Most often used in the fixed expression “socially awkward” and similar combinations describing a person's conduct or circumstances in social situations.
The plural is used for multiple informal gatherings. This noun sense is informal and is especially common in British English and institutional settings.
"The charity hosts several socials throughout the year."
The word social began with the idea of companionship: its Latin ancestor means “of or relating to companions.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does social come from?
Social derives from Latin socialis, meaning “of or relating to companions,” from socius, a companion or ally. It entered English through French in the 16th century and was initially associated with the idea of companionship and friendly association. Over time, its meaning expanded from personal sociability to activities, institutions, and conditions connected with society as a whole. It is related to sociable, society, associate, and association, all reflecting the same Latin family of words associated with companionship and community.
Related word forms
How social is actually used
When used to describe a person, social usually suggests ease in the company of others; the informal phrase “social person” is common in British English. As a noun meaning an informal gathering, social is especially associated with social events and parties. The adjective can also mean connected with society collectively, as in “social policy,” rather than simply friendly or outgoing.
Easily confused with social
Social usually describes something connected with society or a group, while sociable describes a person who enjoys the company of others.