Ceremony: meaning, definitions and examples
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ceremony
[ˈsɛrəˌmoʊni ]
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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 García Márquez showcase how ceremonies can be intertwined with magical realism, enhancing the narrative.
Translations
Translations of the word "ceremony" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cerimônia
🇮🇳 समारोह
🇩🇪 Zeremonie
🇮🇩 upacara
🇺🇦 церемонія
🇵🇱 ceremonia
🇯🇵 儀式 (ぎしき)
🇫🇷 cérémonie
🇪🇸 ceremonia
🇹🇷 tören
🇰🇷 의식 (uisik)
🇸🇦 مراسم (marasim)
🇨🇿 ceremoniál
🇸🇰 ceremónia
🇨🇳 仪式 (yíshì)
🇸🇮 slovesnost
🇮🇸 athöfn
🇰🇿 салтанат
🇬🇪 ცერემონია (ceremonia)
🇦🇿 mərasim
🇲🇽 ceremonia