participation

noun

par·​tic·​i·​pa·​tion (ˌ)pär-ˌti-sə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce participation (audio)
pər-
Synonyms of participationnext
: the act of participating

Examples of participation in a Sentence

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.
This breakneck pace of innovation is attributed to both rising viewership and participation among players around the world and to the rise of American shoe maker Nike as one of the biggest brands in the sport. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 2 July 2026 However, their participation was still in doubt after Serena tweaked her knee during her first-round singles match in her first appearance at the All England Club in four years. — ABC News, 3 July 2026 Hawaii The state allows participation based on gender identity, with protections rooted in broader state anti-discrimination laws. — Jackson Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 Sandler's participation in the newlyweds' wedding ceremony comes nearly a year after the comedic actor co-starred in Happy Gilmore 2 with Kelce, who had a cameo in the sequel film. — Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for participation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of participation was in the 14th century

Rhymes for participation

See All Rhymes for participation

Browse Nearby Words

participating stock
participation
participational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Participation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/participation. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

participation

noun
par·​tic·​i·​pa·​tion
1
: the action or state of taking part in something: as
a
: association with others in a relationship (as a partnership) or an enterprise usually on a formal basis with specified rights and obligations
a loan made directly or in participation with a bank
b
: profit sharing
2
a
: something in which shares are taken by more than one party
b
: something that results in a share (as of a distribution)
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