traditional

adjective

tra·​di·​tion·​al trə-ˈdi-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce traditional (audio)
Synonyms of traditionalnext
1
: of or relating to tradition : consisting of or derived from tradition
a traditional celebration
2
: handed down from age to age
traditional history
traditional songs/stories
3
: following or conforming to tradition : adhering to past practices or established conventions
traditional morality
traditional values/beliefs
employing traditional methods of cooking
traditionally adverb
a dish traditionally made with egg yolks, cream, and sugar
a seating area traditionally reserved for the church's leaders

Examples of traditional in a Sentence

a traditional Passover meal at his grandparents' house a family that is very traditional when it comes to institutions like marriage
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.
Often, traditional behaviors, expectations, and norms on the part of employers, industry, and even their own families hold women back from maximizing their career potential. Literary Hub, 21 Jan. 2026 While traditional white pasta can spike your blood sugar, choosing pasta made with more fiber and protein, or pairing it with the right foods, can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Sarah Anzlovar, Verywell Health, 21 Jan. 2026 Crystal Cave is not a cave in the traditional sense, but rather the interior of the world's largest geode, discovered in 1897 by workers who were building a well. Cailey Rizzo, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2026 The 10-inch long slot can hold two pieces of bread, but its footprint takes up 50% less counter space than traditional toasters. Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for traditional

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of traditional was in 1545

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Cite this Entry

“Traditional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traditional. Accessed 27 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

traditional

adjective
tra·​di·​tion·​al
trə-ˈdish-nəl
-ən-ᵊl
1
: handed down from age to age without writing
2
: based on custom
our traditional Thanksgiving dinner
traditionally
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on traditional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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