ə̇ˈnȯgyəˌrāt, ÷ -gəˌr-, usu -ād.+V transitive verb
Etymology: Latin inauguratus, past participle of inaugurare to practice augury, to inaugurate, from in- in- (II) + augurare to prophesy, augur; from the ceremonies connected with the telling of auguries — more at augur
1. : to introduce or induct into an office with suitable ceremonies or solemnities : invest with power or authority in a formal manner : install
inaugurate a president
2. : to begin, introduce, or mark a start or opening of:
a. : to dedicate, consecrate, or observe the opening or beginning of formally, auspiciously, and publicly
a temple inaugurated by the emperor
national assemblies and military expeditions were inaugurated by public prayers — G.L.Dickinson
b. : to start, commence, or institute sometimes publicly, ceremoniously, or formally with the prospect of continuing as a public service or beneficial agency or force
passenger and freight service on the river was inaugurated in 1832 — American Guide Series: Maine
various conservation projects in the state have been inaugurated — American Guide Series: Delaware
compulsory school attendance was not inaugurated … until 1919 — American Guide Series: Florida
inaugurated the study of Greek — H.O.Taylor
c. : to begin or bring about the beginning of
turning from the hero to the common man, we inaugurated the era of realism — J.W.Krutch
until the Civil War inaugurated a new chapter in Kansas-Missouri relations — W.H.Stephenson
Synonyms: see begin