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

• inauguration
• inaugural
• induction

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

Those things can include pledging and initiation fees, badge or pin fees and other one-time costs. —Tabitha Parent, People.com, 12 Aug. 2025

In April, Donald, Jr., circulated plans for a rival club, Executive Branch, which would initially cap its membership at two hundred people, and charge an initiation fee of up to half a million dollars. —David D. Kirkpatrick, New Yorker, 11 Aug. 2025

Corporate memberships, covering up to four members, cost $9,000, with an additional $1,000 initiation fee. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 5 June 2025

This prayer-promise becomes the basis for Sarah’s spiritual initiation. —Terry Nguyen july 23, Literary Hub, 23 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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