Meaning & Definition of word "Ceremony"

Ceremony

/ˈsɛrəˌmoʊni/

noun:

  • 1. A formal event often conducted in accordance with established customs or rituals.
    • Example: The graduation ceremony was held in the university auditorium.
  • 2. A set of formal actions or procedures typically performed on special occasions.
    • Example: The wedding ceremony included traditional rituals that honored both families.
  • 3. Any formal act or series of acts performed in a customary manner.
    • Example: The inauguration ceremony of the president was attended by thousands of people.
  • 4. A solemn or formal occasion.
    • Example: A memorial ceremony was organized to honor the fallen soldiers.

Etymology

From Old French 'ceremonie', from Latin 'caerimonia'

Common Phrases and Expressions

wedding ceremony:

A formal event to celebrate the union of two people.

graduation ceremony:

A formal event marking the completion of academic studies.

ceremony of initiation:

A formal event marking the beginning of a new phase or membership.

Related Words

ritual:

A series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.

tradition:

Customs or beliefs passed down through generations.

Slang Meanings of ceremony

Meaning: To dress up for a formal event.

Example Sentence: Are we really going to ceremony it up for the dinner?

Meaning: To overdo a simple event with unnecessary formality.

Example Sentence: They’re just having a small party, no need to ceremony it.