noun
Uncommon
commencement
kuh-MEHNS-muhnt
Commencement (noun) means the beginning or start of something (formal). Example: “The commencement of the project was delayed by permit issues.”
noun
1
The beginning or start of something (formal).
"The commencement of the project was delayed by permit issues."
"Rain delayed the commencement of building work by several weeks."
"Before the commencement of the trial, the judge explained the rules to everyone."
2
A graduation ceremony marking the completion of a course of study.
"Her whole family flew in for her college commencement."
"The principal gave a short speech at the commencement ceremony."
"Students wore gowns and caps to the commencement on Saturday afternoon."
How to use commencement
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal beginning, or (in the US especially) a graduation ceremony.
UK vs US
In American English, "commencement" is the standard word for a graduation ceremony; British English tends to use "graduation" instead.
Common pairings
commencement speech
commencement ceremony
commencement of business
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Word forms
- Plural
- commencements
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The _____ of the project was delayed by permit issues.
Etymology
From French commencement, formed from commence + -ment.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for commencement
cement
element
clement
movement
pavement
tenement
inclement
abatement
amusement
statement
agreement
excrement
See all rhymes for commencement →
Frequently asked questions
What does “commencement” mean?
The word “commencement” means the beginning or start of something (formal). In plain terms, a formal beginning, or (in the US especially) a graduation ceremony.
How do you pronounce “commencement”?
“Commencement” is pronounced kuh-MEHNS-muhnt (/kəˈmɛnsmənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “commencement” in a sentence?
Here is “commencement” used in a sentence: “The commencement of the project was delayed by permit issues.”
What part of speech is “commencement”?
“Commencement” is a noun.
Where does the word “commencement” come from?
The word “commencement” comes from French. From French commencement, formed from commence + -ment.
Is “commencement” a common word?
“Commencement” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “commencement” have?
“Commencement” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the beginning or start of something (formal).
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