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Processional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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processional

[prəˈsɛʃənəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

ceremony

Relating to or suitable for a procession.

Synonyms

ceremonial, marching, parade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
processional

Typically used in a formal or solemn context, often referring to a religious or traditional event where a line of people move forward in an orderly fashion.

  • The choir walked down the aisle in a processional manner
  • The wedding began with a processional of the bridal party
ceremonial

This is used for events or actions that are meant to be formal and follow a specific protocol. Often associated with rituals, rites, and official ceremonies.

  • The president's inauguration is a highly ceremonial event
  • They performed a ceremonial dance at the festival
parade

Used to describe a public celebration where people move or march along a street, often with decorations, music, and performances. It can also be used to describe a display of something, sometimes in a boastful way.

  • The city held a parade to celebrate the national holiday
  • They decided to parade their new car around the neighborhood
marching

Generally used for organized movement, often by soldiers or bands, involving a formal, rhythmic walk.

  • The soldiers were marching in precise formation
  • The marching band played loudly as they paraded through the street

Examples of usage

  • The processional route was lined with cheering spectators.
  • The bride wore a beautiful processional gown.
Context #2 | Noun

religious ceremony

A hymn, piece of music, or other liturgical item sung or played during a procession.

Synonyms

anthem, chant, hymn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
processional

Used to describe music or a song that is played during the entrance of participants in a ceremonial event, such as a wedding or graduation.

  • The bride walked down the aisle to a beautiful processional.
  • The processional music set the tone for the entire ceremony.
hymn

Typically associated with religious worship, a hymn is a song of praise or adoration, often directed towards a deity.

  • The congregation sang a hymn to start the service.
  • Amazing Grace is one of the most well-known hymns.
anthem

Often used to refer to a song that is sung as a symbol for a group, movement, or nation. It has a sense of pride and unity.

  • The national anthem was played before the football game.
  • That song became an anthem for the civil rights movement.
chant

Refers to a repetitive and rhythmic phrase, often spoken or sung in unison in religious, spiritual, or protest settings.

  • The monks continued their chanting late into the night.
  • The crowd began to chant slogans demanding justice.

Examples of usage

  • The choir sang a processional as the bride walked down the aisle.
  • The priest led the processional into the church.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'processional'

The word 'processional' originated from the Latin word 'processionem', which means 'a marching forward'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe anything related to or suitable for a procession. Processions have been an important part of various ceremonies and religious events throughout history, and the word 'processional' continues to be used to describe music, hymns, or items associated with such processions.

See also: bioprocessing, preprocessor, process, processable, processed, processes, processing, procession, processor, reprocess, reprocessing, unprocessed.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,836, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.