Celebrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to express joy and festivities for a special occasion, usually with parties, ceremonies, or other joyful activities.

• They celebrate their wedding anniversary every year with a big party
• We will celebrate the New Year with fireworks and music

Used to honor and remember a significant person or event from the past, often with ceremonies or memorials. It has a more solemn tone.

• Each year, they commemorate the heroes of World War II
• A statue was erected to commemorate the founding of the city

Used to show respect and admiration for someone or something, often through formal events or acknowledgments. It emphasizes respect.

• They held a banquet to honour the retiring professor
• The community gathered to honour the town's founding families

Used to express great joy and happiness, often as an outward emotional reaction to positive news or events. It is less commonly used in everyday speech and can sound more formal or literary.

• They rejoiced at the news of the baby's birth
• The whole nation rejoiced when the war ended

Used to indicate or signal an event or significant occasion, sometimes with a special activity. It can be both solemn and joyful.

• We planted a tree to mark our first year in the new house
• The festival marks the start of summer

Used when marking a happy or special occasion with joy and festivities.

• We will celebrate her birthday with a big party.
• They celebrate their anniversary every year.

Used when following certain traditional practices, rituals, or laws, usually in a solemn or respectful manner.

• We observe Christmas by attending church.
• Many people observe a moment of silence on Memorial Day.

Used when joining in an activity, often related to sharing food or experiences in a group setting.

• Would you like to partake in our feast?
• We invite everyone to partake in the celebrations.

Used to describe a cheerful and joyous atmosphere, often related to holidays or celebrations.

• The room looks very festive with all the decorations.
• The town has a festive spirit during the holiday season.

Used when honoring or remembering an important event or person, often with ceremonies and formal gatherings.

• We commemorate the veterans who served our country.
• There will be a ceremony to commemorate the historic event.

Mark a special event or achievement with joyous activities.

• We celebrate our anniversary every year with a special dinner
• They plan to celebrate the New Year with fireworks

A social event where people come together to have fun, often including food, drinks, and entertainment.

• We threw a surprise birthday party for him
• The office holiday party was full of laughter and games

Lively and enjoyable activities associated with holidays or special events.

• The festivity of the carnival brought joy to the whole town
• They joined in the Christmas festivity with caroling and feasting

A meeting of people for a specific purpose, often social or informal.

• We had a family gathering last weekend
• The teacher organized a student gathering to discuss the project

A particular event or happening, often requiring special activities or dress.

• Her graduation was a proud occasion for the whole family
• It’s not a formal occasion, so casual attire is fine