Definition of ceremonialnext

ceremonial

2 of 2

noun

as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules the funeral of a pope is usually marked by rich pageantry and elaborate ceremonials

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ceremonial distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of ceremonial are ceremonious, conventional, and formal. While all these words mean "marked by attention to or adhering strictly to prescribed forms," ceremonial and ceremonious both imply strict attention to what is prescribed by custom or by ritual, but ceremonial applies to things that are associated with ceremonies.

a ceremonial offering

When can ceremonious be used instead of ceremonial?

While in some cases nearly identical to ceremonial, ceremonious applies to persons given to ceremony or to acts attended by ceremony.

made his ceremonious entrance

When is it sensible to use conventional instead of ceremonial?

While the synonyms conventional and ceremonial are close in meaning, conventional implies accord with general custom and usage and may suggest a stodgy lack of originality or independence.

conventional courtesy
conventional fiction

When could formal be used to replace ceremonial?

In some situations, the words formal and ceremonial are roughly equivalent. However, formal applies both to things prescribed by and to persons obedient to custom and may suggest stiff, restrained, or old-fashioned behavior.

a formal report
the headmaster's formal manner

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ceremonial
Adjective
Archaeologists have determined the mounds served ceremonial, spiritual and burial functions, though many details of their cultural significance remain a mystery. Joe Yogerst, CNN Money, 27 June 2026 The cooperation was strategic, not ceremonial. The Editors, Robb Report, 27 June 2026 Greg Abel celebrates after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before the Iowa Cubs played the Buffalo Bisons on June 25, 2026. Alex Crippen, CNBC, 27 June 2026 The two-story place has six rooms packed with artifacts such as portraits, heirlooms, ceremonial feather standards, and elegant koa wood furniture. Sharael Kolberg, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ceremonial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ceremonial
Adjective
  • The men, both in formal suits, appear jovial despite their opposing political views, with smiles spreading on their faces.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Management cited its recent formal launch of FedEx Life Science, which provides specialized transportation services for the health-care industry, where packages can be both time- and temperature-sensitive, as well as accelerating growth in artificial intelligence.
    Zev Fima, CNBC, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Toni and Shakira appeared to be in trouble after one of the show’s most meta humiliation rituals, in which the group is treated to a showing of clips of themselves having private conversations about their castmates and lovers.
    Lillian Fishman, New Yorker, 27 June 2026
  • Because Capricorn is an Earth sign, Thomas shared rituals connected to nature may feel especially powerful during this lunar phase.
    ABC News, ABC News, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • It is celebrated with a ceremonious parade that features a cavalcade of men dressed in Roman soldier costumes, evoking a sense of solemn thanksgiving and spiritual devotion.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
  • The ones named Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion by the judges make a ceremonious visit at the end of the day to the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa in downtown Denver.
    Miguel Otárola, Denver Post, 21 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • At the April topping-off ceremony, Lightfoot, who left office in 2023, took credit for the rising casino, perhaps the signature achievement of her administration.
    Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2026
  • Last week, the president abruptly canceled a housing bill signing ceremony, blocking the legislation from immediately becoming law.
    Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • But Lohar isn’t interested in conventional battle.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 22 June 2026
  • Developed in partnership with the University of Bremen, the wheels were originally heavier and narrower than comparable conventional pneumatic wheels.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Bass, who served in Congress for more than a decade, was designated by then-President Biden to be part of his official delegation to attend the inauguration of Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
  • Ament is wearing a Heat hat tonight, but he is headed to Milwaukee as part of the not-yet-official Giannis Antetokounmpo trade.
    Rohan Nadkarni, NBC news, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ceremonial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ceremonial. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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