(Plural "fora" or "forums") Any discussion group accessible through a dial-in BBS (e.g. GEnie, CI$), a mailing list, or a Usenetnewsgroup (see {network, the}). A forum functions much like a {bulletin board} users submit postings for all to read and discussion ensues. Contrast real-time chat or point-to-point personal e-mail. [Jargon File] (1998-01-18)