Finesentence logo

Ritual: meaning, definitions and examples

⛪
Add to dictionary

ritual

 

[ ˈrɪtʃuəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

tradition

A religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.

Synonyms

ceremony, custom, tradition

Examples of usage

  • The wedding ceremony included several traditional rituals.
  • The tribe performed a sacred ritual to honor their ancestors.
Context #2 | Noun

habit

A series of actions or type of behavior regularly and invariably followed by someone.

Synonyms

custom, practice, routine

Examples of usage

  • His morning ritual involved drinking coffee and reading the newspaper.
  • She had a bedtime ritual of brushing her teeth and listening to music.
Context #3 | Noun

obsession

An action that is regularly repeated in a set precise manner, especially as part of a religious or solemn ceremony.

Synonyms

compulsion, routine, tradition

Examples of usage

  • His ritual of checking the doors multiple times before bed became an obsession.
  • The ritual of lighting candles in the church had a calming effect on her.

Translations

Translations of the word "ritual" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ritual

🇮🇳 रिवाज

🇩🇪 Ritual

🇮🇩 ritual

🇺🇦 ритуал

🇵🇱 rytuał

🇯🇵 儀式 (ぎしき)

🇫🇷 rituel

🇪🇸 ritual

🇹🇷 ritüel

🇰🇷 의식 (uishik)

🇸🇦 طقوس

🇨🇿 rituál

🇸🇰 rituál

🇨🇳 仪式 (yíshì)

🇸🇮 ritual

🇮🇸 athöfn

🇰🇿 рәсім

🇬🇪 რიტუალი

🇦🇿 ritual

🇲🇽 ritual

Etymology

The word 'ritual' originates from the Latin word 'ritualis', meaning 'relating to a rite'. It has been used since the early 17th century to describe formal religious or solemn ceremonies. Rituals have been an integral part of human culture and society for centuries, serving as a way to establish and maintain traditions, express beliefs, and create a sense of community. From ancient rituals performed by various civilizations to modern-day practices, the concept of ritual continues to play a significant role in human behavior and interaction.

See also: ritualistic, rituals.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,026 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.