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

The beginning or start of something (formal).

"The commencement of the project was delayed by permit issues."

A graduation ceremony marking the completion of a course of study.

"Her whole family flew in for her college commencement."

How to use commencement

Learner’s notes

In 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

Word forms

commencements plural

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The _____ of the project was delayed by permit issues.

Etymology

From French commencement, formed from commence + -ment.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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first start beginning graduation offset outset showtime get-go kickoff starting time graduation exercise commencement exercise

Related words

time first go part end start run death

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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