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

Early Christians used the period as preparation for major religious observances and for baptism, according to the Christian History Institute. —Dallas Morning News, 20 Jan. 2026

Although the bill did not pass during Carter's presidency, his support helped shift the momentum, ultimately leading to its passage in 1983 and the first national observance in 1986. —Sharon Lawson, CBS News, 20 Jan. 2026

In observance of the holiday, some stores and services will be closed or have limited operations. —Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 19 Jan. 2026

All banks will be closed in observance of the federal holiday. —Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 16 Jan. 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