Having a relaxed, casual character without strict rules or ceremony. Not following established procedures or protocols.
From Latin 'informalis' meaning 'not in proper form', with 'in-' (not) + 'formalis' (of or relating to form). The social meaning of casual or relaxed behavior developed in the 18th century as formal social structures became more defined by contrast.
What we consider 'informal' is actually highly structured - casual conversation follows complex unspoken rules, and informal dress codes can be just as rigid as formal ones! The informality of modern digital communication has created entirely new etiquette systems, proving that humans instinctively create structure even when trying to avoid it.
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