■ noun ( plural ceremonies )
1》 a formal religious or public occasion, typically celebrating a particular event or achievement.
↘an act or series of acts performed according to a traditional or prescribed form.
2》 the ritual procedures observed at grand formal occasions: the new Queen was proclaimed with due ~.
Phrases
stand on ~ insist on the observance of formalities.
without ~ without preamble or politeness.
Origin
ME: from OFr. ceremonie or L. caerimonia 'religious worship', (plural) 'ritual observances'.