rites

plural of rite
as in rituals
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 rites Sinon also told Odysseus the fallen Ithacan soldiers were unable to rest because they weren’t honored with proper Greek warrior funeral rites. Tanya Fedak, Variety, 18 July 2026 Some claimed that Buddhists, like Asians generally, were passive and lazy, and that their religious rites reflected a dull, monotonous approach to life. Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 7 July 2026 Among the artifacts returned by Switzerland is a Benin Eroro, a four-sided ceremonial bell that played a central role in royal rites, political functions, and battle. Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 29 June 2026 Her book captures the community’s most personal moments, from family life and weddings to sacred religious rites. Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 21 June 2026 Religious and traditional leaders, who oversee burial and funeral rites, are often the most trusted voices in their communities. Katherine Marshall, STAT, 12 June 2026 The dangers faced by health workers have been heightened by anger among residents over the stringent medical protocols for handling the victims’ bodies, which clash with local burial rites. Justin Kabumba, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026 The dangers faced by health workers have been heightened by anger among residents over the stringent medical protocols for handling the victims' bodies, which clash with local burial rites. CBS News, 31 May 2026 Distrust, travel bans could complicate response Dangers faced by health workers have been heightened by anger among residents over the stringent medical protocols for dealing with the bodies of victims, which clash with local burial rites. Mark Banchereau, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rites
Noun
  • These are objects of belonging that signal specific cultural moments, rituals and aesthetics, and many young people today are starting to experience them for the first time.
    Rotem Rozental, Fortune, 14 July 2026
  • That means obvious things, like medication, feeding, and potty breaks, but also details like favorite toys, spots to be scratched, and other small rituals your pet looks forward to every day.
    Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 13 July 2026
Noun
  • Reporter Andrea Clement worked as an audience stunt coordinator during the closing ceremonies for the 1996 Olympics.
    Andrea Clement, AJC.com, 17 July 2026
  • Kente used to be for royalty and for ceremonial purposes, reserved for sacred ceremonies and occasions.
    Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
Noun
  • Over time, Muharram observances became woven into civic and cultural life across parts of the region, where some Hindus participated as musicians in processions and others crafted tazias.
    ABC News, ABC News, 25 June 2026
  • Handler and his son will not attend any five year memorial observances.
    Marisa Peñaloza, NPR, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rites.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rites. Accessed 18 Jul. 2026.

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