Ceremony Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ceremony
[หsษrษหmoสni ]
Definition
official event
A ceremony is a formal event, often with a set of customs and traditions, that is performed on special occasions. It is a way to mark an important event or milestone in a person's life or in a community. Ceremonies can vary in scale from small and intimate gatherings to large and elaborate events.
Synonyms
celebration, function, observance, ritual.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ceremony |
Formal events with established protocols, often marking important social or religious occasions.
|
| ritual |
Established and repeated actions often related to religious or cultural traditions, can be formal or informal.
|
| celebration |
Festive events marking happy or significant occasions, often including parties or social gatherings.
|
| function |
Formal or semiformal events, often related to official, professional, or social purposes.
|
| observance |
Practices or events that involve following religious, cultural, or legal traditions, often with a sense of solemnity.
|
Examples of usage
- The graduation ceremony was held in the school auditorium.
- The wedding ceremony took place in a beautiful garden.
- At the opening ceremony, the mayor gave a speech.
- The award ceremony honored the achievements of local artists.
- The traditional ceremony included a dance performed by the elders.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have unique ceremonies that reflect their values, such as weddings, graduations, or coming-of-age rituals.
- Ceremonies can serve as a way to convey important social norms and cohesion within a community.
- In some cultures, a ceremony can be used to mark transitions in life, from childhood to adulthood.
Psychology
- Participating in ceremonies can create a sense of belonging and reinforce individual identity within a group.
- Research shows that rituals associated with ceremonies can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of stability.
- Ceremonies often stimulate emotional responses that can make the experience more memorable for participants.
Pop Culture
- Films often depict elaborate ceremonies, such as award shows, to highlight important achievements in entertainment.
- Popular music events, like the Grammy Awards, are examples of ceremonies that celebrate artistic excellence.
- The concept of 'coming-of-age' ceremonies in movies can reflect societal values and personal growth.
Literature
- Ceremonies often serve as pivotal plot points in literature, representing critical moments in characters' journeys.
- In classic literature, ceremonies may symbolize cultural rituals, revealing deep societal traditions.
- Authors like Gabriel Garcรญa Mรกrquez showcase how ceremonies can be intertwined with magical realism, enhancing the narrative.
Origin of 'ceremony'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ceremony' comes from the Latin 'caerimonia,' which meant 'sacred or religious rites.'
- Over time, the meaning expanded to include any formal event, not just religious ones.
- Early forms of ceremonies were often linked to agricultural cycles, celebrating planting and harvest.
The word 'ceremony' has its origins in the Latin word 'caerimonia', which referred to religious rites or rituals. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include a wider range of formal events and traditions. Ceremonies have been a part of human culture for centuries, serving as a way to mark important moments and bring communities together.