Definition of observancenext
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as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules some religions require very specific observances on holy days

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 observance Rizzi was among the dozens who gathered Thursday for Hands Around the Courthouse, an annual event hosted by CASA Kane County in observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 2026 Worshippers can now freely gather at Christian, Jewish, and Muslim sites for major religious celebrations, including Orthodox Easter and Ramadan observances. Sam Mednick, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026 The city manager was also directed to work with labor groups to rename the observance of Cesar Chavez Day to Farm Workers Day, which state leaders have already done, or consider an alternative floating holiday for city employees. Mona Darwish, Oc Register, 8 Apr. 2026 Easter Monday falls on April 6, 2026, and continues religious observances. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 5 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for observance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for observance
Noun
  • Director Kat Coiro follows the romantic comedy formula to a T and makes no apologies for her strict adherence to convention.
    Adam Graham, Twin Cities, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Without widespread vaccine adherence, illnesses that were once eradicated can make a return.
    Sukhman Rekhi, Verywell Health, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Celebrating love is universal, but the exact rites and rituals vary.
    Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 11 Apr. 2026
  • For many, the day is less a one-time outing and more a ritual.
    Michael Howes, Baltimore Sun, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Wheatley isn’t a sudden-twitch mover and the tackling can get messy, but the size, awareness and ability to play deep, in the slot or around the box should keep him in the Day 2 conversation.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Over the past several decades, Americans’ tastes have shifted and broadened with a growing awareness of wine, as well as a more health-conscious lifestyle.
    Julia Sayers Gokhale, Midwest Living, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Such a policy would bring the department into compliance with state law.
    Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Apr. 2026
  • Before publishing, journalists reviewed this content in compliance with McClatchy Media’s AI policy.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 17 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Their ceremony began with a hymn sung by Darius’ favorite gospel singer, Jekalyn Carr, and guests were invited to sing along, the couple recalled to the outlet.
    Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 18 Apr. 2026
  • For her Coronation ceremony on June 4th, 1953, the Queen wore a gown designed by Norman Hartnell.
    Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • This week’s wellness trends highlight what’s worth your attention and what may not live up to the hype.
    Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 13 Apr. 2026
  • The food is elegant yet playful with impeccable attention to detail.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • County officials declined to answer questions about the grandmother’s account, including whether a social worker documented any such observation.
    Julia Prodis Sulek, Mercury News, 20 Apr. 2026
  • An artist observes carefully, especially things that go unnoticed — and transforms these observations into meaningful expressions.
    Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • This guided 90-minute session is to help inspire writing and nurture mindfulness.
    Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Wind chimes have been said to relieve stress, encourage mindfulness, and add pleasant, melodic charm to your outdoor space.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Observance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/observance. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

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