What is the meaning of discourse?

noun

• Extended verbal expression in speech or writing.
• An address of a religious nature (usually delivered during a church service.
  • synonyms: sermon, preaching
• An extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topic.
  • usage: "the book contains an excellent discussion of modal logic"; "his treatment of the race question is badly biased"
  • synonyms: discussion, treatment

verb

• To consider or examine in speech or writing.
  • usage: "The author talks about the different aspects of this question"; "The class discussed Dante's `Inferno'"
  • synonyms: talk about, discuss
• Carry on a conversation.
  • synonyms: converse
• Talk at length and formally about a topic.
  • usage: "The speaker dissertated about the social politics in 18th century England"
  • synonyms: hold forth, dissertate