Pronunciation: [ˈanjuːə͡l mˈiːtɪŋ] (IPA) 
The spelling of "annual meeting" is pretty straightforward, but it can be helpful to use IPA phonetic transcription to understand how each sound is pronounced. In IPA, "annual" is spelled /ˈænjuəl/ and "meeting" is spelled /ˈmitɪŋ/. The "a" in "annual" is pronounced like the "a" in "cat," while the "e" in "meeting" is pronounced like the "ee" in "feet." Overall, the pronunciation of "annual meeting" is /ˈænjuəl ˈmitɪŋ/.
An annual meeting refers to a scheduled gathering of members or representatives of an organization or company that typically takes place once a year. It is an important event in which relevant stakeholders come together to discuss, assess, and make decisions on various matters that impact the organization's operations and future direction.
During an annual meeting, participants review and address critical issues such as financial performance, operational updates, strategic planning, and corporate governance. This gathering provides an opportunity for shareholders, board members, executives, and other key stakeholders to access and evaluate pertinent information about the organization's performance and future goals.
Typically, an annual meeting includes a formal agenda that outlines the topics to be discussed and may involve presentations from executives, financial reports, and voting on specific matters. Shareholders or members may also have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and raise concerns during this event. The annual meeting often serves as a platform to elect or re-elect board members, approve dividends, and ratify policies or changes in the organization's bylaws.
Attendees may include individuals who hold voting rights or members of professional associations, as well as interested parties like employees, media representatives, and guests. Annual meetings play a pivotal role in fostering transparency, providing accountability, and engaging stakeholders in the decision-making processes of the organization.
The word "annual" comes from the Latin word "annus", meaning "year". "Annual" is derived directly from the Latin word, which then passed into Old French and Middle English, retaining its meaning of "happening once a year".
The word "meeting" comes from the Old English word "mētan", meaning "to assemble" or "to come together". In Middle English, "mētan" evolved into "meetinge", eventually becoming "meeting" in Modern English.
When combined, "annual meeting" refers to an assembly or gathering that takes place once a year.
