convene

This term carries a formal, authoritative tone, typically associated with official bodies, legal proceedings, or organized committees. It suggests a structured gathering with a specific agenda or mandate, rather than a casual social meeting. When used transitively, it emphasizes the power of an individual or entity to summon others. When used intransitively, it focuses on the act of the group assembling. It is rarely used in informal settings, as "meet" or "gather" would be more natural for non-official contexts.