a group of people who regularly gather for religious worship, especially in a church
The pastor asked the congregation to stand and sing.
After the service, the entire congregation gathered outside for a photo.
✦ From Latin congregatio “a gathering together,” from congregare “to flock together.”
the act or process of coming together in a crowd or large group
The sudden congregation of tourists around the street performer blocked the sidewalk.
Scientists studied the seasonal congregation of whales near the coast.
✦ Same origin as primary sense: Latin congregatio, from congregare “to gather together.”
