initiation

noun

ini·​ti·​a·​tion i-ˌni-shē-ˈā-shən 

1

a

: the act or an instance of initiating

b

: the process of being initiated

c

: the rites, ceremonies, ordeals, or instructions with which one is made a member of a sect or society or is invested with a particular function or status

2

: the condition of being initiated into some experience or sphere of activity : knowledgeableness

Synonyms of initiation

• inauguration
• inaugural

Examples of initiation in a Sentence

his initiation as a member of the club

crimes committed as part of gang initiations

the initiation of judicial proceedings

Recent Examples on the Web

Hazing is a ritual that involves risk, pain or harm to gain some form of initiation. —Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 20 Feb. 2026

The sky hung low and gray that morning, and the bone-chilling cold and snow felt like an initiation to the Bold North. —Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026

For example, some private courses require memberships that carry initiation fees exceeding $100,000. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 18 Feb. 2026

Authorities said each device contained an explosive main charge, main charge container and initiation system, and all seven devices were assembled and in operating condition. —Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 14 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing initiation

• initiation rite

Rhymes for initiation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

initiation

noun

ini·​ti·​a·​tion in-ˌish-ē-ˈā-shən 

1

: the act of initiating : the process of being initiated : introduction

2

: the ceremonies with which a person is made a member of a club or society