Commencement: meaning, definitions and examples

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commencement

 

[ kəˈmensmənt ]

Context #1 | Noun

beginning

The commencement refers to the beginning of something, such as an event, a process, or a period of time. It is often associated with formal ceremonies, such as graduation commencement.

Synonyms

initiation, onset, start

Examples of usage

  • The commencement of the new school year is always an exciting time for students.
  • The commencement of the project was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Context #2 | Noun

graduation

In the context of education, commencement specifically refers to the ceremony in which academic degrees or diplomas are conferred upon graduating students. It is a significant event marking the completion of studies.

Synonyms

ceremony, convocation, graduation

Examples of usage

  • She was thrilled to receive her diploma at the commencement ceremony.
  • The commencement speaker delivered an inspiring speech to the graduating class.

Translations

Translations of the word "commencement" in other languages:

🇵🇹 início

🇮🇳 प्रारंभ

🇩🇪 Beginn

🇮🇩 permulaan

🇺🇦 початок

🇵🇱 rozpoczęcie

🇯🇵 開始

🇫🇷 commencement

🇪🇸 comienzo

🇹🇷 başlangıç

🇰🇷 시작

🇸🇦 بداية

🇨🇿 začátek

🇸🇰 začiatok

🇨🇳 开始

🇸🇮 začetek

🇮🇸 upphaf

🇰🇿 басталу

🇬🇪 დასაწყისი

🇦🇿 başlanğıc

🇲🇽 inicio

Word origin

The word 'commencement' originated from the Latin word 'com-' meaning 'together' and 'initiare' meaning 'to begin'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the beginning or start of something. The term 'commencement' became associated with graduation ceremonies in the early 19th century, where it symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in the graduates' lives.

See also: commenceable, commencing, recommence.