invitation

noun

in·​vi·​ta·​tion ˌin-və-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce invitation (audio)
Synonyms of invitationnext
1
a
: the act of inviting
b
: an often formal request to be present or participate
2
: incentive, inducement

Examples of invitation in a Sentence

We sent out more than 100 invitations for the party.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Organizers have already reserved the Charleston Gaillard Center and nearby hotels for next year’s session, Wilson said, and sent invitations to OSCE ambassadors. — Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 7 July 2026 Recently, Etéreo debuted The Obsidian, an invitation-only cocktail experience, tucked within El Nicho, the hotel’s intimate library and salon. — Flora Stubbs, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026 The Olympic gold medalist responded to those questioning her invitation to the pop star’s wedding to Travis Kelce after sharing photos from the celebration via Instagram on Monday. — Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026 Forbes Agency Council is an invitation-only community for executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies. — Tim Wragg, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for invitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of invitation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing invitation

Rhymes for invitation

See All Rhymes for invitation

Browse Nearby Words

invitant
invitation
invitational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Invitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/invitation. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

invitation

noun
in·​vi·​ta·​tion ˌin-və-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce invitation (audio)
1
: the act of inviting
2
: the written, printed, or spoken expression by which a person is invited
invitational
-shnəl, 
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on invitation

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for invitation

Nglish: Translation of invitation for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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