Synonyms of usher

usher

verb

as in to steer

to point out the way for (someone) especially from a position in front

ushered the job applicant into the room and then left

Synonyms & Similar Words

• steer
• guide
• accompany
• lead
• show
• conduct
• direct
• route
• escort
• pilot
• marshal
• precede
• attend
• chaperone
• see
• manage
• control
• convoy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• follow
• trail
• dog
• tail
• shadow
• hound
• tailgate

Synonym Chooser

How is the word usher in different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of usher in are begin, commence, inaugurate, initiate, and start. While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," usher in is somewhat less weighty than inaugurate.

ushered in a period of economic decline

How is begin related to other words for usher in?

Begin, start, and commence are often interchangeable, with begin, opposed to end, being the most general.

begin a trip

began dancing

How does the word commence relate to other synonyms for usher in?

Commence can be more formal or bookish than begin or start.

commence firing

commenced a conversation

When is inaugurate a more appropriate choice than usher in?

Although the words inaugurate and usher in have much in common, inaugurate suggests a beginning of some formality or notion of significance.

the discovery of penicillin inaugurated a new era in medicine

When could initiate be used to replace usher in?

The meanings of initiate and usher in largely overlap; however, initiate implies taking a first step in a process or series that is to continue.

initiated diplomatic contacts

When might start be a better fit than usher in?

The words start and usher in are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, start, opposed to stop, applies especially to first actions, steps, or stages.

the work started slowly

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of usher

The 46-year-old was ushered into a sterile room for her appointment, her phone lit up with a text. — Jesse Bedayn, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2026

After a stop at Gary’s podium, we were ushered to the factory floor entrance, where Stern employee and legendary game designer George Gomez briefed us on the tour rules and answered questions. — ArsTechnica, 21 Oct. 2026

Michael Hayden’s Sky’s the Limit light sculpture has become practically synonymous with the Chicago airport as the glowing tunnel that ushers its passengers from the stress of a long travel day into Windy City magic. — Kat Chen, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Oct. 2026

Subtracting LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges somewhat diminishes the overall talent, but Charlotte wanted Miller and Knueppel to usher them into the next era. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2026