ordination

noun

or·​di·​na·​tion ˌȯr-də-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce ordination (audio)
Synonyms of ordinationnext
: the act or an instance of ordaining : the state of being ordained

Examples of ordination in a Sentence

He is a candidate for ordination. After his ordination, he will be assigned to a local parish.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But when news regarding the ordination broke, Imhotep was met with criticism and scrutiny. Meagan Jordan, Rolling Stone, 15 Jan. 2026 Leo, who has promised to keep Francis' signature policies such as welcoming gay Catholics and discussing women's ordination, echoed his predecessor's frequent criticisms of the global economic system during his remarks on Tuesday. Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026 Excess vitamin A can cause severe headaches, blurred vision and problems with co-ordination. The Week Uk, TheWeek, 2 Jan. 2026 Authority is no longer synonymous with ordination. Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 30 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ordination

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ordination was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Ordination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ordination. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

ordination

noun
or·​di·​na·​tion ˌȯrd-ᵊn-ˈā-shən How to pronounce ordination (audio)
: the act of ordaining : the state of being ordained
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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