observance

noun

ob·​ser·​vance əb-ˈzər-vən(t)s 

1

a

: a customary practice, rite, or ceremony

Sabbath observances

b

: a rule governing members of a religious order

2

: an act or instance of following a custom, rule, or law

observance of the speed limits

3

: an act or instance of watching

Synonyms of observance

• adherence
• compliance
• observation
• conformity

Examples of observance in a Sentence

the observance of this family tradition would make your grandmother very happy

observance of the smoking ban in public buildings

Recent Examples on the Web

Today, 100 years after the first observance of what would become Black History Month, roughly three dozen Black males are serving in Congress. —Arthur Jones Ii, ABC News, 26 Feb. 2026

The Grapevine-Colleyville school board on Monday rejected the creation of a policy in alignment with Senate Bill 11, also stating the district already had a policy allowing students to engage in prayer and religious observance during the school day. —Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Feb. 2026

Though distinct in their own right, the observances intersect on many levels. —Ernesto Fonts, Sun Sentinel, 24 Feb. 2026

It's often viewed as a time for celebration and revelry and the final burst of excitement before the solemn observances of the Easter season. —Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 23 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English observaunce, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French observance, borrowed from Latin observantia "action of watching, deferential regard, adherence to rules" (Late Latin also "adherence to divine law, religious rites"), derivative of observant-, observans, present participle of observāre "to give attention to, observe"

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

observance

noun

ob·​ser·​vance əb-ˈzər-vən(t)s 

1

: an established practice or ceremony

religious observances

2

: an act of following a custom, rule, or law

3

: an act or instance of watching