topical

[top-i-kuhl]

adjective

1. relating to or dealing with matters of current or local interest.

   a topical reference.

2. relating to the subject of a discourse, composition, or the like.

3. relating to or in a particular place; local.

   The themes chosen for World Meteorological Day reflect topical weather, climate, or water-related issues.

4. Medicine/Medical.,  of, relating to, or applied externally to a particular part of the body; local.

   a topical anesthetic.

noun

1. Philately.,  any of a collection of different stamps treating the same subject.

topical

/ ˈtɒpɪkəl, ˌtɒpɪˈkælɪtɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or constituting current affairs

2. relating to a particular place; local

3. of or relating to a topic or topics

4. (of a drug, ointment, etc) for application to the body surface; local

Other Word Forms

• topically adverb
• topicality noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of topical¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Greek topik(ós) “local, pertaining to commonplaces” ( topo-, -ic ) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

“Eureka Day,” a comedy by Jonathan Spector that wades into the debate on vaccine mandates, has only become more explosively topical since its 2018 premiere at Aurora Theatre Company, in Berkeley, Calif.

From Los Angeles Times

While Wakim was only on the show for one season, he made some memorable visits to the Weekend Update desk where he delivered topical monologues.

From Los Angeles Times

Set during a tragic moment in L.A.’s recent history and as topical as today’s news, the Lincoln Lawyer is more relevant than ever.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, it tugs on a topical issue within its comedy.

From Los Angeles Times

The segment, which is broadcast during the Today programme but overseen by the BBC's religion department, features contributors from religious and theological backgrounds delivering messages related to topical themes and events.

From BBC

Related Words

• newsworthy