ˈserəˌmōnē, -ni, Brit usually & US sometimes -ə̇mən- noun
( -es )
Etymology: Middle English cerimonie, ceremonie, from Middle French cérimonie, cérémonie, from Latin caerimonia, perhaps of Etruscan origin; akin to Caere, Etruscan city near Rome
1. : a formal act or series of acts typically conducted elaborately, solemnly, and as prescribed by the ritual or protocol of religious, state, courtly, social, or tribal procedure
after the death of a king, a solemn ceremony of purification was performed by a princess — J.G.Frazer
the marriage ceremony
a religious ceremony
the new republic was formally proclaimed with elaborate ceremonies — Coller's Year Book
2.
a. : a conventional act or gesture of politeness or etiquette especially when done elaborately
the ceremony of introductions completed, the party resumed
b. : an action performed with formality but lacking deep significance, force, or effect
the drift towards conformity revealed itself … in the emphasis upon gestures and ceremonies of loyalty — H.S.Commager
c. : a commonplace routine action performed with elaboration, pomp, or punctiliousness
the weekly ceremony of giving out the wages to the help
3.
a. obsolete : a symbol or device used in an elaborate ritual procedure
b. : pomp or display associated with such a procedure
c. obsolete : portent , omen
4.
a. : prescribed procedures : usages, observances
the ceremony attending the inauguration
b. : accordance with or observance of an established code of civility or politeness
the door of Major Post's small office … opened without ceremony and a young flight officer strode in — J.G.Cozzens
c. : a special occasion or function (as a parade, review, or escort) performed according to prescribed regulations
Synonyms: see form