SuaviloquyToday’s word

convocation

Convocation, n.

Etymology: [L. convocatio: cf. F. convocation. See Convoke.]

1. The act of calling or assembling by summons.

2. An assembly or meeting. In the first day there shall be a holy convocation. Ex. xii. 16.

3. (Ch. of Eng.)

An assembly of the clergy, by their representatives, to consult on ecclesiastical affairs.

4 more senses

Note: In England, the provinces of Canterbury and York have each their convocation, but no session for business were allowed from 1717 to 1861. The Convocation of Canterbury consists of two houses. In the Convocation of York the business has been generally conducted in one assembly.

4. (Oxf. University)

An academical assembly, in which the business of the university is transacted.

Syn. -- meeting; assembly; congregation; congress; diet; convention; synod; council.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for convocation; he lists it under company.

Where he writes about it:

A convocation is an assembly called by authority for a special purpose; the term convention suggests less dependence upon any superior authority or summons. — from company