ceremonial

2 of 2

noun

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

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ceremonial distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of ceremonial are ceremonious, conventional, and formal. While all these words mean "marked by attention to or adhering strictly to prescribed forms," ceremonial and ceremonious both imply strict attention to what is prescribed by custom or by ritual, but ceremonial applies to things that are associated with ceremonies.

a ceremonial offering

When can ceremonious be used instead of ceremonial?

While in some cases nearly identical to ceremonial, ceremonious applies to persons given to ceremony or to acts attended by ceremony.

made his ceremonious entrance

When is it sensible to use conventional instead of ceremonial?

While the synonyms conventional and ceremonial are close in meaning, conventional implies accord with general custom and usage and may suggest a stodgy lack of originality or independence.

conventional courtesy
conventional fiction

When could formal be used to replace ceremonial?

In some situations, the words formal and ceremonial are roughly equivalent. However, formal applies both to things prescribed by and to persons obedient to custom and may suggest stiff, restrained, or old-fashioned behavior.

a formal report
the headmaster's formal manner

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 ceremonial
Adjective
Vance scoffs at delay tactic as White House reschedules signing ceremony Republicans don't seem too deterred by Jeffries' protest speech, even as the White House is reportedly having to change plans on what day and time Trump will hold a ceremonial signing of the mega-bill. Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 4 July 2025 But the nature of today’s ceremonial monarchy doesn’t make the United Kingdom’s form of government preferable to ours. Richard Lorenc, Twin Cities, 3 July 2025
Noun
As her funeral is shown on The Crown season 6, here’s everything to know about the royal ceremonial. Kelsie Gibson, Peoplemag, 16 Nov. 2023 Nothing ceremonial marked the reopening, but a parking lot memorial stood as a reminder of the recent tragedy. Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2023 See All Example Sentences for ceremonial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ceremonial
Adjective
  • Just last year, California Olive Ranch became the first company in North America to receive formal regenerative certification from A Greener World for over 4,600 acres on their own ranches.
    Esha Chhabra, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025
  • The color selection and style make this pair a great option for both casual and formal events since they can be worn with jeans, shorts, skirts, and dresses.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • The church has made fewer modifications than in other denominations to ancient Christian rituals or doctrines, the diocese wrote.
    Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 2 Aug. 2025
  • Additionally, Oshun Griot offers healing rituals, including meditations, yoga, and affirmations rooted in cultural traditions, as well as real-life stories from individuals of color navigating their fertility journeys, and helpful yoga videos.
    Dominique Fluker, Essence, 1 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Prior to kickoff in the game that marked the debut of the baby blue Riptide jersey, Inter Miami owners Jorge and Jose Mas officially welcomed De Paul with the same type of ceremonious presentation that was given in years past to the star foursome of Messi, Alba, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets.
    Franco Panizo, Miami Herald, 27 July 2025
  • Worthy of the most ceremonious unwrapping video, a black cardboard carton contains an impressive wooden box with the DAP nestled inside.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 20 July 2025
Noun
  • Rowe was among the more than 3,000 degree candidates and credential recipients at the campus’ 65th Commencement ceremonies in Turlock, California.
    Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 July 2025
  • Cuban will be honored at a ceremony in the Austin Convention Center's Ballroom D on Monday evening.
    Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • This means the country's Royal Air Force could join NATO's dual capable aircraft fleet, featuring jets certified to carry American tactical nuclear weapons as well as conventional bombs and missiles.
    Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025
  • The Male Opportunity Here’s where conventional understanding of resale may miss the mark: men are driving resale adoption more aggressively than women.
    Kristen Classi-Zummo, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Adjective
  • That was just the name used on the enterprise's official paperwork.
    John C. Moritz, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • Prosecutors contend Dugan's actions went beyond her official duties and interfered with federal jurisdiction.
    John Diedrich, jsonline.com, 30 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ceremonial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ceremonial. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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