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Definition of dialect : 1. Means or mode of expressing thoughts; language; tongue; form of speech.
2. The form of speech of a limited region or people, as distinguished from ether forms nearly related to it; a variety or subdivision of a language; speech characterized by local peculiarities or specific circumstances; as, the Ionic and Attic were dialects of Greece; the Yorkshire dialect; the dialect of the learned.

Synonyms:

idiomatic expression, speech pattern, vocabulary, barbarism, phrase, terminology, cant, diction, artistic style, stress, lexicon, emphasis, mother tongue, accent mark, expression, words, accent, langue, set phrase, phrasal idiom

colloquialism, coinage, vernacular, idiom

discussion, prattle, spoken word, report, vocalization, dialog, chitchat, oration, speech, allocution, talking, jabbering, patter, elocution, chat, recitation, circumlocution, speaking, oral communication, debate, locution, voice, chattering, babbling, remark

language, slang, argot, lingo, parlance, grammar, tongue, jargon, rhetoric, patois, phrasing, Esperanto

Usage examples:

• The dialect seemed strange and unfamiliar. - "Three Sioux Scouts", Elmer Russell Gregor.
• He turned rapidly to Madame du Gua, with whom he exchanged a few eager words, which Francine, who had somewhat forgotten the dialect of Lower Brittany, did not understand. - "The Chouans", Honore de Balzac.
• This book is writ in such a dialect As may the minds of listless men affect: It seems a novelty, and yet contains Nothing but sound and honest gospel strains. - "The Pilgrim's Progress From this world to that which is to come.", John Bunyan.