Initiation

ɪˌnɪʃiˈeɪʃən

nounmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The act or process of admitting someone into a group or organization, often with a ceremony or ritual.

ɪˌnɪʃiˈeɪʃən

nounneutralmedium
General

The action of admitting someone into a group, especially through a special ceremony or ritual.

The initiation into the secret society involved a blindfold and a series of riddles.

💡 Simply: Think of it like joining a club or a team. When you're welcomed and go through a special process or ceremony, that's initiation! Like when you get a new job or join a secret club!

👶 For kids: When you join a new club or group and have to do something special to be part of it. It's like a welcoming party!

More Examples

2

The candidate's initiation into the political party required a pledge of loyalty.

3

The religious ceremony involved a complex initiation ritual.

How It's Used

Sociology

"The initiation ceremony marked the young man's entry into adulthood."

Fraternities/Sororities

"New members must complete a series of tasks during their initiation week."

Organizations

"The company's initiation process included a training program and a mentorship."

2

The start or beginning of something, such as a process, project, or activity.

ɪˌnɪʃiˈeɪʃən

nounneutralBeginner
General

The beginning or introduction of something.

The initiation of the project required a detailed plan and budget.

💡 Simply: The start of something new. Like the kickoff of a game, or the moment you start a new project. It's the beginning!

👶 For kids: It's when you start something new, like the first day of school or the start of your favorite TV show.

More Examples

2

The initiation of hostilities signaled the start of the war.

3

The initiation of the investigation was prompted by new evidence.

How It's Used

Business

"The initiation of the new marketing campaign was met with great anticipation."

Technical

"The initiation of the program took place at precisely 9 am."

Project Management

"The initiation of a project is a crucial stage."

Tip:It's the 'initial' step - the beginning.

Idioms & expressions

initiation fee

A one-time fee charged to join a club, organization, or group.

"The country club required a hefty initiation fee before allowing membership."

From Latin *initiatio* ('a beginning'), derived from *initiare* ('to begin, initiate'), from *initium* ('a beginning, commencement'). It's roots trace back to *in-* ('in, into') + *ire* ('to go').

Historically, the term has been used across various contexts, including religious and social practices involving rites of passage or the formal beginning of something.

Memory tip

Imagine a 'new' person 'in' a group, needing to 'initiate' their presence through a ceremony.

iniciationinitiationeinititaion

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written