Entry Word: occasion

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a particular point at which an event takes place <the occasion of our last meeting with our old friend was several years ago, unfortunately>

Synonyms moment, time

Related Words flash, instant, jiffy, minute, second, shake, split second, trice, twinkle, wink; while

2 a favorable combination of circumstances, time, and place <the substitute violinist rose to the occasion and performed the piece beautifully> — see opportunity
3 someone or something responsible for a result <your graduation will be an occasion for celebration> — see cause 1
4 something that happens <weddings are generally happy occasions> — see event 1