Ceremony

/ˈsɛrəmoʊni/

nounBeginnerCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

A formal act or series of acts performed on a special occasion, often with religious or social significance.

/ˈsɛrəmoʊni/

nounneutralBeginner
General

A formal act or series of acts performed on a special occasion

The opening ceremony of the Olympics was spectacular.

💡 Simply: Think of a fancy event with special steps, like a wedding or graduation. It's usually formal and important.

👶 For kids: A special party with fancy steps!

More Examples

2

They held a small, private ceremony for their anniversary.

How It's Used

Religious

"The wedding ceremony was held in a beautiful church."

Political

"The inauguration ceremony was televised nationally."

Idioms & expressions

with ceremony

In a formal or elaborate manner.

"The award was presented with great ceremony."

From Old French *ceremonie, from Latin caerimonia 'sacred rite, religious observance', possibly from caere 'to proclaim'

The word's usage has evolved from its religious origins to encompass a wider range of formal occasions.

Memory tip

Remember 'ceremony' as a formal 'ceremony-nial' occasion.

cerimonyceremonyy

Usage

20%Spoken
80%Written