English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun Uncommon

initiation

ih-nihsh-ee-AY-shuhn

Initiation (noun) means the act or process of starting something. Example: “The initiation of the project was delayed by funding issues.”

noun
1
The act or process of starting something.
"The initiation of the project was delayed by funding issues."
2
A ceremony or ritual that formally admits someone into a group.
"The fraternity's initiation involved a series of embarrassing tasks."
"Her initiation into the secret society took place at midnight."

How to use initiation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe start of something, or specifically the ceremony that brings someone into a group.

Common pairings
initiation ceremony initiation rite initiation into

Word forms

initiations plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “initiation” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ of the project was delayed by funding issues.

Etymology

From Latin initiatio, "a beginning or admission," from initiare, "to begin, induct."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for initiation

See all rhymes for initiation →

Frequently asked questions

What does “initiation” mean?

The word “initiation” means the act or process of starting something. In plain terms, the start of something, or specifically the ceremony that brings someone into a group.

How do you pronounce “initiation”?

“Initiation” is pronounced ih-nihsh-ee-AY-shuhn (/ɪˌnɪʃ.iˈeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “initiation” in a sentence?

Here is “initiation” used in a sentence: “The initiation of the project was delayed by funding issues.”

What is the opposite of “initiation”?

The opposite of “initiation” — its antonyms — are conclusion and end.

What part of speech is “initiation”?

“Initiation” is a noun.

Where does the word “initiation” come from?

The word “initiation” comes from Latin. From Latin initiatio, "a beginning or admission," from initiare, "to begin, induct.".

Is “initiation” a common word?

“Initiation” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “initiation” have?

“Initiation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act or process of starting something.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial