Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act or process of beginning something; the start of something new: "Initiation" refers to the action of causing something to start or the point at which something begins.
   • The formal admission or introduction of someone into a group, organization, or status, often involving a ritual or ceremony: "Initiation" describes the process or ceremony through which a person is made a member of a group or is introduced to a new role, often involving special knowledge or rites.
   • The action of introducing someone to a particular activity, skill, or area of knowledge for the first time: "Initiation" can mean the process of teaching someone the basic facts or skills of a subject.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The initiation of peace talks was a welcome development. (The beginning of peace talks was a welcome development.)
  • Her initiation into the secret society was a solemn ceremony. (Her formal admission into the secret society was a solemn ceremony.)
  • The book provides a good initiation into the principles of economics. (The book provides a good introduction to the principles of economics.)

Advanced Usage

• "Initiation ceremony/rite/ritual": A formal event marking someone's entry into a group.
  • The fraternity's initiation ritual is held every fall.
• "Initiation fee": A sum of money paid when joining an organization.
  • There is a steep initiation fee to join the country club.

Variants and Related Words

• Initiate (verb): To cause something to begin; to formally admit someone into a group.
  • The company will initiate a new research project.
  • He was initiated into the order last year.
• Initiative (noun): The ability to assess and begin things independently; a new strategy or action.
  • She showed great initiative by solving the problem herself.
• Initiatory (adjective): Relating to an initiation.
  • The initiatory rites were ancient and complex.

Synonyms

• Beginning: The point in time or space at which something starts.
• Commencement: The beginning of something.
• Induction: The formal introduction of someone into a position or organization.
• Inauguration: The formal beginning or introduction of a system, policy, or period.

Related Phrases

• Initiation into the mysteries: Introduction to the special knowledge or secrets of a group.
  • His book describes his initiation into the mysteries of the ancient cult.

Related Idioms

• Baptism of fire: A difficult introduction to a new job or activity. (This is a related concept but not a direct idiom with "initiation").
  • His first day as a teacher was a real baptism of fire.

Noun

1. an act that sets in motion some course of events
2. wisdom as evidenced by the possession of knowledge
   • his knowledgeability impressed me
   • his dullness was due to lack of initiation
3. the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new
   • she looked forward to her initiation as an adult
   • the foundation of a new scientific society
4. a formal entry into an organization or position or office
   • his initiation into the club
   • he was ordered to report for induction into the army
   • he gave a speech as part of his installation into the hall of fame