graduation

noun

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grad·u·a·tion | \ ˌgra-jə-ˈwā-shən

Definition of graduation

1 : a mark on an instrument or vessel indicating degrees or quantity also : these marks

2a : the award or acceptance of an academic degree or diploma

b : commencement

3 : arrangement in degrees or ranks

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More About graduation

Examples of graduation in a Sentence

He joined the navy after graduation. We had a party to celebrate her graduation from high school. They took lots of pictures at their son's graduation.

Recent Examples on the Web Photo services bring traffic into these retailers' stores, particularly during the peak holiday, graduation and wedding seasons. — Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN, 10 Sep. 2022 After the graduation of star quarterback Steven Woods, junior Bryce Leaman took over a Bishop Fenwick team loaded with playmakers. — Cam Kerry, BostonGlobe.com, 10 Sep. 2022 Aim to have total student loan debt at graduation that is less than your annual income. — Susan Tompor, Detroit Free Press, 9 Sep. 2022 His father also posted a photo of the two at Ryan's high school graduation in 2019. — CBS News, 9 Sep. 2022 Guidara’s mother, Janet, died the day after Will’s graduation from Cornell University in 2001. — Howie Kahn, WSJ, 8 Sep. 2022 Alabama moved one step closer to changing high school graduation requirements Thursday. — al, 8 Sep. 2022 Queen Elizabeth attended the Royal Military Academy graduation of Prince William in 2006, wearing a red jacket and hat that complemented his uniform. — Stephanie Petit, Peoplemag, 8 Sep. 2022 Federal prosecutors said Dillard posted a picture with his son in June 2019 at Ryan’s high school graduation. — Helen Kwong, NBC News, 8 Sep. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'graduation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Buying Guide

The Britannica Reviews team has selected the best graduation gifts.