as in formal
following or agreeing with established form, custom, or rules
a ceremonial presentation of the ambassador's credentials
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules
the funeral of a pope is usually marked by rich pageantry and elaborate ceremonials
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of ceremonial
Rachel Burchfield,
InStyle,
1 July 2026
Based on carbon dating and artifacts, detritus and animal remains found at the site, Carr and others concluded the circle had likely been the foundation for a wooden ceremonial building dating back around 2,000 years.
—
Andres Viglucci,
Miami Herald,
30 June 2026
Could one of the greatest competitors in sports history summon enough of the old Serena to make this more than a ceremonial comeback?
—
Dan Zaksheske,
FOXNews.com,
30 June 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
See All Example Sentences for ceremonial
Adjective
The future king, along with other royals, were photographed in traditional green velvet ceremonial robes at the event.
—
Rachel Burchfield,
InStyle,
1 July 2026
Based on carbon dating and artifacts, detritus and animal remains found at the site, Carr and others concluded the circle had likely been the foundation for a wooden ceremonial building dating back around 2,000 years.
—
Andres Viglucci,
Miami Herald,
30 June 2026
Could one of the greatest competitors in sports history summon enough of the old Serena to make this more than a ceremonial comeback?
—
Dan Zaksheske,
FOXNews.com,
30 June 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
See All Example Sentences for ceremonial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ceremonial
Adjective
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Fireworks from formal rocket shows to impromptu street celebrations can create extremely unhealthy air quality, sometimes rivaling what comes from wildfires.
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The impression was bolstered Friday afternoon when dozens of A-list celebrities were seen heading into the venue in formal wear, from Karlie Kloss and Hugh Grant to Jason Sudeikis and Chris Jones.
Noun
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That the ritual continues Saturday after Saturday, year after year, is its own kind of small miracle.
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Supporters argue that the gatherings represent a form of devotion untethered from rigid rituals and the gatekeeping normally associated with temples or religious processions.
Adjective
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It is celebrated with a ceremonious parade that features a cavalcade of men dressed in Roman soldier costumes, evoking a sense of solemn thanksgiving and spiritual devotion.
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The ones named Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion by the judges make a ceremonious visit at the end of the day to the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa in downtown Denver.
Noun
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He is slated to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan upon arrival, then participate in a bilateral meeting with him after an arrival ceremony, followed by a NATO leaders’ dinner.
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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce reportedly presented 20-minute vows to each other during their wedding ceremony.
Adjective
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But cruise missiles are more versatile in conventional warfare.
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The majority of Georgian wine reaching export markets is made in what producers call the European style — stainless steel fermentation, conventional winemaking, easily approachable.
Adjective
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Members of Norway’s Parliament have even done it in their official chamber.
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The country’s final authority on election matters, the National Jury of Elections (JNE), has yet to issue its official proclamation, according to Reuters.
Cite this Entry
“Ceremonial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ceremonial. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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