Rituals: meaning, definitions and examples

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rituals

[ˈrɪtʃuəlz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

cultural practices

Rituals are a sequence of activities involving gestures, words, and objects, performed in a sequestered place, and according to set sequence.

Synonyms

ceremony, custom, tradition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rituals	Performed as part of religious or spiritual practices, often involving established procedures or rites. The monks perform their daily rituals at dawn. Family rituals can provide a sense of belonging and continuity.
ceremony	Used for formal events or occasions, often public, that mark a special event or achievement. The graduation ceremony was attended by all students and their families. The wedding ceremony was held in a beautiful garden.
tradition	Entails practices, beliefs, or stories passed down within a culture, often over many generations. Traditions can encompass customs, rituals, and ceremonies. Christmas is a tradition celebrated by many people around the world. The annual family reunion has become a cherished tradition.
custom	Refers to long-established practices or behaviors that are characteristic of a particular group or society. It is a custom in many cultures to shake hands when meeting someone new. Wearing black at funerals is a common custom in many countries.

Examples of usage

The tribe's rituals included dancing around the fire.
The wedding ceremony was full of traditional rituals.
She performed the morning ritual of brewing coffee.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

routine practices

Rituals can also refer to a series of actions or type of behavior regularly and invariably followed by someone.

Synonyms

custom, habit, routine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
routine	Describes a regular or fixed way of doing things, often simple and practical. Usually refers to everyday activities and does not carry ceremonial or symbolic meaning. Her morning routine includes a cup of coffee and a quick jog. Following a set routine can boost productivity.
habit	Refers to regular behaviors or practices that an individual does often, usually developed over time. Typically considered personal and may not have deep cultural significance. He has a habit of checking his phone every few minutes. Brushing teeth twice a day is a healthy habit.
custom	Refers to established and traditional practices or behaviors that are specific to a community, culture, or group. Emphasizes societal or cultural norms. It is a custom in their culture to greet strangers with a bow. Holiday customs can vary widely from country to country.

Word

Description / Examples

routine

Describes a regular or fixed way of doing things, often simple and practical. Usually refers to everyday activities and does not carry ceremonial or symbolic meaning.

Her morning routine includes a cup of coffee and a quick jog.
Following a set routine can boost productivity.

habit

Refers to regular behaviors or practices that an individual does often, usually developed over time. Typically considered personal and may not have deep cultural significance.

He has a habit of checking his phone every few minutes.
Brushing teeth twice a day is a healthy habit.

custom

Refers to established and traditional practices or behaviors that are specific to a community, culture, or group. Emphasizes societal or cultural norms.

It is a custom in their culture to greet strangers with a bow.
Holiday customs can vary widely from country to country.

Examples of usage

His morning rituals included jogging and reading the news.
The team had a pre-game ritual of high-fives and motivational chants.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Many cultures have unique rituals for life events like weddings, births, and funerals, showing their values and beliefs.
Rituals can also be related to nature, like planting and harvest festivals, helping communities connect with the earth.

Psychology

Engaging in rituals can help people feel more in control during stressful times, providing comfort and stability.
Some studies suggest that participating in rituals can enhance motivation and improve performance in tasks.

Religious Practices

Rituals are an integral part of many religions, marking important moments like prayer, meditation, and community gatherings.
The practice of rituals can create a sense of belonging among participants, reinforcing their shared faith and values.

History

Ancient civilizations often performed elaborate rituals to appease gods or spirits, believing it would ensure favorable outcomes.
The practice of rituals has evolved over time, with some ancient ceremonies still being celebrated today, connecting the past with the present.

Popular Culture

Modern movies and TV shows often portray rituals as dramatic or mysterious, emphasizing their importance in character development.
Festivals and public events can be seen as modern rituals, where communities come together to celebrate and bond.

Translations

Translations of the word "rituals" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rituais

🇮🇳 अनुष्ठान

🇩🇪 Rituale

🇮🇩 ritual

🇺🇦 ритуали

🇵🇱 rytuały

🇯🇵 儀式

🇫🇷 rituels

🇪🇸 rituales

🇹🇷 ritüeller

🇰🇷 의식

🇸🇦 طقوس

🇨🇿 rituály

🇸🇰 rituály

🇨🇳 仪式

🇸🇮 rituali

🇮🇸 siðir

🇰🇿 рәсімдер

🇬🇪 რიტუალები

🇦🇿 rituallar

🇲🇽 rituales

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,623 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8620 excise
8621 condenser
8622 fermentation
8623 rituals
8624 grim
8625 topography
8626 tolerated
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