1
as in adherences
the following of a custom, rule, or law
the observance of this family tradition would make your grandmother very happy observance of the smoking ban in public buildings
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in rituals
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
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of observances
European migrants brought festivals such as Samhain and other observances of mortality to North America.
—
George Petras, USA Today, 27 Sep. 2025
Conference speakers remembered Kirk and incorporated the activist's memory in religious observances.
—Liam Adams, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Sep. 2025
George Petras, USA Today, 27 Sep. 2025
Conference speakers remembered Kirk and incorporated the activist's memory in religious observances.
—Liam Adams, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for observances
Noun
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In an examination of stigma, resilience, and the search for self-worth, Paul channels his mental health struggles into domestic service for mistresses and online rituals of cleaning.—
Christian Zilko,
IndieWire,
9 Oct. 2025
-
In Virgo, Venus brings a salt-of-the-earth discernment to our relationships, finances and self-care rituals.—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
8 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Now an adviser to startups and venture capital funds on AI and business transformation, Souder spoke with Fortune’s Diane Brady before an audience of leading CFOs from Chicago and beyond, sharing observations from his global travels.—
Sheryl Estrada,
Fortune,
9 Oct. 2025
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There were some people who were critical of her observations, but most people were appreciative of her sharing the good and the things that could be better.—
Elizabeth Ayoola,
Essence,
9 Oct. 2025
Noun
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The agreement says mediators and the ICRC will facilitate the exchange of the hostages and prisoners without public ceremonies or media coverage.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
12 Oct. 2025
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The katakuchi spout is a nod to functionality, allowing for smooth pouring during tea ceremonies or morning caffeine cravings.—
Audrey Lee,
Architectural Digest,
10 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
According to the Ceremonial of Bishops, such rites – often a Mass or a Liturgy of the Word – should take place as soon as possible following a desecration.—
Stepheny Price,
FOXNews.com,
12 Oct. 2025
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Religious rites and ceremonies have no effect.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
10 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Observances.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/observances. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.
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