-vən(t)s noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English observaunce, from Old French observance, from Late Latin observantia, from Latin, regard, respect, from observant-, observans (present participle of observare ) + -ia
1.
a. : something (as an act of religious or ceremonial nature) that is carried out in accord with prescribed forms : a customary practice, rite, or ceremony
b. : a rule or set of regulations governing members of a religious order
c. usually capitalized , Roman Catholicism : the ordinances governing the strict Franciscans
2.
a. : the performance of a customary rite (as of ceremony or religion)
do the observance due to sprightly May — John Dryden
our customary Sabbath observances
b. : an act or the practice of paying due heed to something established (as a rule, law, custom) : an attending, participating in, or following with care
observance of the speed laws
3. archaic : respectful and dutiful service or attention (as to a person) : deferential courtesy
4. : an act or instance of observing : attention , observation
observance of life