Definition

1. Noun:
   • A formal act or set of acts performed on a special occasion according to tradition, law, or religion: A ceremony is a ritualistic event marking a significant moment.
   • The formal behaviors and procedures conventionally observed on a solemn or important occasion: Ceremony refers to the specific codes of conduct for such events.
   • Formal politeness or elaborate procedure, sometimes perceived as excessive: Ceremony can describe a showy or rigid adherence to formalities.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The wedding ceremony was beautiful and traditional.
  • The award ceremony will be held in the main hall.
  • They were married in a simple civil ceremony.
  • He handed her the letter without ceremony. (Meaning: in a direct, informal way)

Advanced Usage

• "To stand on ceremony": To insist on or be very careful about formal rules of politeness.
  • Please, make yourself at home and don't stand on ceremony.
• "Master of ceremonies" (often abbreviated as MC): A person who hosts a formal event or program, introducing speakers and guiding the proceedings.
  • The master of ceremonies kept the gala dinner running smoothly.

Variants and Related Words

• Ceremonial (adj): Relating to or used in a ceremony; formal.
  • The king wore his ceremonial robes.
• Ceremonious (adj): Characterized by or devoted to ceremony and formality.
  • He gave a ceremonious bow.
• Ceremonially (adv): In a ceremonial manner.
• Ceremoniousness (n): The quality of being ceremonious.

Synonyms

• Rite: A religious or other solemn ceremony or act.
• Ritual: A ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.
• Formality: The rigid observance of rules or convention.
• Observance: The practice of fulfilling or celebrating a custom, duty, or law.

Antonyms

• Informality: Casualness; absence of formality or ceremony.
• Simplicity: The quality of being plain and uncomplicated.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Without ceremony": In a direct, abrupt, or informal manner, dispensing with formalities.
  • He entered the room without ceremony and stated his business.
• "Pomp and ceremony": A phrase describing splendid and formal display, often at official events.
  • The coronation was conducted with great pomp and ceremony.

Noun

1. the proper or conventional behavior on some solemn occasion
   • an inaugural ceremony
2. any activity that is performed in an especially solemn elaborate or formal way
   • the ceremony of smelling the cork and tasting the wine
   • he makes a ceremony of addressing his golf ball
   • he disposed of it without ceremony
3. a formal event performed on a special occasion
   • a ceremony commemorating Pearl Harbor