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

Neptune can represent imagination, spirituality, idealism and illusion, while Aries is concerned with selfhood, courage and initiation. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 15 July 2026

And A’ja Wilson got her a lovely Toy Story backpack as part of her rookie initiation in Las Vegas. — Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 13 July 2026

Though the email was sent prior to the initiation of the formal coaching agreement, Carvalho did later bill DPS for work done in June 2022, records show. — Jessica Seaman, Denver Post, 9 July 2026

Legacy Club membership, with a $300,000 initiation fee and $60,000 annual dues, provides access to multiple courses and a 16-acre practice facility. — Erik Matuszewski, Forbes.com, 8 July 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