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

The annual observance is recognized with parades, community events and commemorations. —Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 1 June 2026

As part of the observance, many Muslims throughout the world sacrifice livestock such as sheep, goats, cows or buffaloes, with the meat often shared among the community and those in need. —Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 31 May 2026

Kiddon harkened back to the early days of the La Grange post’s Memorial Day observances, which have been a tradition there for 82 years. —Hank Beckman, Chicago Tribune, 26 May 2026

In the United States, flags are lowered to half-staff on certain national observances and following the deaths of notable public officials. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 25 May 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