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

Aries is a sign of initiation and autonomy, so having two generational planets in this Fire sign not only encourages us to stop outsourcing our power but also to fight for goals and dreams without cutting corners. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026

Private clubs charge tens of thousands in initiation fees and then tack on monthly dues. —Hugh Kellenberger, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2026

This ensuing odyssey rapidly evolves from a mere tracking expedition into a brutal test of endurance and a profound, sensory initiation. —Robert Lang, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026

Its relative smallness, however, prevents the initiation of the nuclear processes that could have turned it into a full-fledged star. —Joe Rao, Space.com, 7 Jan. 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