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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.
Passing does not make someone an ordained rabbi; ordination is conferred through private rabbis and schools, and most Orthodox communities do not recognize female rabbis. Michal Raucher, The Conversation, 19 Nov. 2025 Some see this ceremony as a religious-like one, signifying a student’s entry into a profession, similar to the ordination of a young priest. Stephen J. Forman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Nov. 2025 Rochelle, in her 50s, is working toward a master’s degree and ordination at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Jayme Fraser, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025 Before her ordination, Mullally worked as a nurse at hospitals in London, going on to serve as Chief Nursing Officer for England. Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 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 9 Dec. 2025.

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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