[tra.di.tion] n [ME tradicioun, fr. MF & L; MF tradition, fr. L tradition-, traditio action of handing over, tradition--more at treason] (14c) 1: an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior (as a religious practice or a social custom)
2: the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction
3: cultural continuity in social attitudes, customs, and institutions
4: characteristic manner, method, or style -- tra.di.tion.al adj -- tra.di.tion.al.ly adv -- tra.di.tion.less adj