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

Faith observances during historic milestones Trump isn’t the only president to discuss religion during a major milestone celebration. —Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 9 Mar. 2026

Today, the global observance celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while also lobbying for greater gender parity. —Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 8 Mar. 2026

But starting in 1970, Time and Date AS has tracked observance of daylight saving time in Kentucky every year. —Chris Sims, Louisville Courier Journal, 7 Mar. 2026

This weekend, Idaho residents will set their clocks and watches ahead by one hour in observance of daylight saving time. —Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 6 Mar. 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