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

My ex had arrived at work one day in 2008 to find his coworker bleeding to death outside, violence that was probably the result of a gang initiation killing, according to later information from the police. —Chera Hammons, PEOPLE, 10 June 2026

Section 301 investigations are typically given a 12-month window after their initiation in which final reports should be produced. —Paxton Honerkamp, CNBC, 9 June 2026

By stimulating these areas, the program might aid in the initiation and maintenance of sleep. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 4 June 2026

Some Hijra women undergo a ritual initiation into the community. —Vogue, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing initiation

• initiation rite

Rhymes for initiation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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