session

"Session" is a straightforward and very useful word with a few closely related meanings. At its core, it always refers to a period of time set aside for a specific activity or purpose. Here are the most common ways you will encounter it.

1nouna period of activity

A session is a block of time you dedicate to doing one particular thing. Think of it like a slot in your day — you start it, do the thing, and then it ends. It could be short or long, formal or casual.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

I had a two-hour study session at the library this afternoon.

The personal trainer scheduled three workout sessions per week for me.

After a long gaming session, my eyes were tired.

2nouna formal meeting or series of meetings

In official or professional settings, a session refers to a formal gathering — like a court, a parliament, or a conference — where people come together to discuss or decide things. It often implies that the meeting is part of a regular or official schedule.

law, politics, government · Modern, widely used

The court is now in session — please be quiet.

Parliament will open its new session in September.

The United Nations held an emergency session to discuss the crisis.

3nouna meeting with a professional

When you meet regularly with a doctor, therapist, coach, or tutor, each individual meeting is called a session. It suggests a structured, purposeful meeting that is usually one of many.

healthcare, education, coaching · Modern, widely used

Her therapist recommended weekly sessions to help manage stress.

The coach reviewed the player's performance after each training session.

I booked five tutoring sessions to prepare for my exam.

4nounan academic term or period

In education, a session can refer to a school year or a specific term — the official period during which classes are held. This use is especially common in British and South Asian English.

education · Modern, common in British and South Asian English

The academic session begins in August and ends in May.

Students must register before the new session starts.

She joined the university in the 2023–2024 session.

5nouna recording or music session

In music, a session is a period of time spent in a studio recording music. You might also hear 'session musician', which means a professional musician hired to play on someone else's recording.

music, entertainment · Modern, widely used

The band booked a recording session at a studio in Nashville.

He works as a session guitarist and plays on many albums.

The recording session lasted well into the night.