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

Hanukkah, one of the most popular Jewish religious observances, is here. —Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 16 Dec. 2025

Miami in an evening showcasing signature DNM pieces, a new work-in-progress, and a world premiere, offering a diverse observance of the season. —Orlando Taquechel, Miami Herald, 16 Dec. 2025

All branches of Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles are closed Thursday in observance of Christmas. —IndyStar, 16 Dec. 2025

The question of how Jews adhere to religious observances in space, however, is one that far predates Ramon's spaceflight. —Josh Dinner, Space.com, 14 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