rite
ryt
Rite (noun) means a formal ceremony or custom, especially one with religious or traditional significance. Example: “The wedding rite lasted almost an hour.”
noun
1
A formal ceremony or custom, especially one with religious or traditional significance.
"The wedding rite lasted almost an hour."
"Coming-of-age rites vary widely between cultures."
"In the village, a harvest rite is still held each autumn."
How to use rite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA set, often ceremonial, way of doing something — usually religious, traditional, or formal.
Common mistake
Easily confused with "right" and "write," which sound identical but mean completely different things.
Common pairings
rite of passage
religious rite
burial rite
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Word forms
- Plural
- rites
Fill the gap
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The wedding _____ lasted almost an hour.
Etymology
From Latin ritus via Old French and Middle English, essentially unchanged in meaning since Roman times.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for rite
See all rhymes for rite →Frequently asked questions
What does “rite” mean?
The word “rite” means a formal ceremony or custom, especially one with religious or traditional significance. In plain terms, a set, often ceremonial, way of doing something — usually religious, traditional, or formal.
How do you pronounce “rite”?
“Rite” is pronounced ryt (/ɹaɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “rite” in a sentence?
Here is “rite” used in a sentence: “The wedding rite lasted almost an hour.”
What part of speech is “rite”?
“Rite” is a noun.
Where does the word “rite” come from?
The word “rite” comes from Latin. From Latin ritus via Old French and Middle English, essentially unchanged in meaning since Roman times.
Is “rite” a common word?
“Rite” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "rite" and "ritual"?
"Rite" refers to a specific formal ceremony, especially one with religious or traditional significance, such as a burial rite. "Ritual" can refer more broadly to any established procedure or practice, religious or otherwise, and often emphasizes the repeated, prescribed nature of the actions rather than a single ceremony.
What is the difference between "rite" and "right"?
"Rite" and "right" are homophones, pronounced the same but spelled differently and unrelated in meaning. "Rite" refers to a ceremony, while "right" relates to correctness, entitlement, or direction.
