rite

as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules the annual summer rite of loading up the car for the big family vacation

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 rite His death sets in motion a series of elaborate rituals and rites as the Catholic church transition from the end of his papacy to the start of the next. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025 The first-of-its kind footage could highlight how the closest living relatives to humans may partake in a boozy treat to strengthen bonds that’s similar to our social rites. Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2025 Amid the solemn chants and traditional rites, the faithful reflected on his legacy of service to the poor and marginalized, offering prayers and silent tributes to the beloved pontiff. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Apr. 2025 Image Last year, Francis, who died Monday at 88, simplified the church’s elaborate papal funeral rites, built on centuries of tradition. Elisabetta Povoledo, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rite
Noun
  • The ritual completed, my father assessed himself in the mirror.
    Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 14 June 2025
  • All the perfumed unguents and performative rituals of fame are present.
    Jeff Weiss, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • The ceremony is free and open to the public, with registration encouraged at usps.com/usps250years.
    Kristen Waggoner, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025
  • Carnival rides and parking lots open at 2 p.m. Food vendors and Riverwalk Grill open at 4 p.m., and a patriotic ceremony with military Color Guard is at 6 p.m., the band Full Strength performs from 6:30 – 9 p.m.
    Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rite. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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