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

Their officially atheist government suppressed many kinds of spiritual observance, including Christmas. —Andrew Fedorov, The Atlantic, 31 Dec. 2025

Since then, banks have expanded their observance to include several holidays throughout the year, including major ones like Thanksgiving and Christmas. —Kelsey Lentz, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025

Earlier this year, markets closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas, in observance of the holidays. —Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 30 Dec. 2025

Families and communities across metro Atlanta are coming together to celebrate Kwanzaa, a weeklong observance honoring African heritage, culture, and values. —Monique John, CBS News, 28 Dec. 2025

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