What is a hangout?

[Emerogork]

and why is it unfortunate that they are disabled?
Since I am not using them, how do I stop being reminded that they are switched off?
Moto G
Nova Launcher 4.2.2
Andriod 5.1

 

[Tim1954]

Hangouts is a social media thing by Google... if you open the app itself and find settings, then kill notifications if possible and try to force stop /disable it ...

 

[Emerogork]

I do not seem to find an application for "Hangouts". Is it hidden elsewhere?
It seems that I am not receiving messages that replies have been made to my posts.
I found yours here only accidentally.