initiation

noun

ini·​ti·​a·​tion i-ˌni-shē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce initiation (audio)
Synonyms of initiationnext
1
a
: the act or an instance of initiating
b
: the process of being initiated
c
: the rites, ceremonies, ordeals, or instructions with which one is made a member of a sect or society or is invested with a particular function or status
2
: the condition of being initiated into some experience or sphere of activity : knowledgeableness

Synonyms

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Examples of initiation in a Sentence

his initiation as a member of the club crimes committed as part of gang initiations the initiation of judicial proceedings
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The semiconductor stock jumped 7.8% on the heels of Raymond James’ initiation at an outperform rating. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 14 Mar. 2025 The organizations are not allowed to recruit, induct new members or conduct initiation processes and meetings. — Minyvonne Burke, NBC News, 6 Mar. 2025 In the center of it all, a clothed woman awaits her initiation into the cult. — Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Feb. 2025 Aries is instinct, initiation, and self-determination. — Colin Bedell, Them, 14 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for initiation

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of initiation was in 1583

Phrases Containing initiation

Rhymes for initiation

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Cite this Entry

“Initiation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/initiation. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

initiation

noun
ini·​ti·​a·​tion in-ˌish-ē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce initiation (audio)
1
: the act of initiating : the process of being initiated : introduction
2
: the ceremonies with which a person is made a member of a club or society

More from Merriam-Webster on initiation

Nglish: Translation of initiation for Spanish Speakers

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