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as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules some religions require very specific observances on holy days

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 observance What else is closed on Labor Day in Boise? Government offices including the U.S. Postal Service and public libraries will be closed Monday in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Kate Linderman, Idaho Statesman, 29 Aug. 2025 Banks, post offices, and the stock market will be closed in observance of the holiday. Reia Li, AZCentral.com, 28 Aug. 2025 We will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1, in observance of Labor Day. Monday (weekly) from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Aug. 2025 As part of the first annual Red Friday observance, the Chiefs sell team flags and proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for observance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for observance
Noun
  • This improves adherence to medical recommendations and reduces the likelihood of complications or relapses.
    MSNBC Newsweek, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025
  • That means creating systems that prioritize outcomes over strict adherence to specific programs.
    Caroline Whistler, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Wellness is embedded into every touchpoint - from sunrise cacao rituals on the beach to temazcal ceremonies led by local healers.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • That ritual has become both mirror and armor—the quiet mathematics that kept her whole.
    JP Mangalindan, Time, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • While commercial pilots are allowed to use iPads and electronic tablets in the cockpit to access navigation charts and checklists, the tone of the exchange sparked questions about situational awareness in a restricted airspace.
    Heather Hunter, The Washington Examiner, 18 Sep. 2025
  • But while these shows have been praised for bringing awareness to the condition, women shouldn't learn about this common health problem from reality TV.
    Lauren Giella, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • At the same time, the industry is embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to manage tariff risks, optimize logistics costs, and ensure pricing compliance across complex regulatory environments.
    Nish Acharya, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • This includes preparing for potential court challenges and coordinating with state officials to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The request was met with boos from some Democrats who pointed out that a Colorado school shooting on the same day had not received the same ceremony.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Netanyahu attended a ceremony in the West Bank on Thursday celebrating his right-wing government's expansion of the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim.
    Jordana Miller, ABC News, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • While the 77th Annual Emmy Awards embraced nostalgia with attention to classics like The Golden Girls and Gilmore Girls, it was once again dominated by streaming giants breaking records and reshaping the industry.
    Marc Berman, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Engravings on the bullets caught the agents’ attention.
    Rick Jervis, USA Today, 14 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Bryan Marcus said it is handled on a case by case basis, on how best the district can support and guide an observation.
    Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Sep. 2025
  • The smock is designed to prevent self-harm and is part of broader safety measures implemented for individuals under heightened observation.
    Amanda Castro Hannah Parry Joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • In addition to Ducasse’s culinary mastery, offering a cohesive experience that encompasses the liveried staff in period costumes and the ceremonial is part and parcel of the success of the banquet, according to Révah.
    Lily Templeton, WWD, 20 Feb. 2025
  • For those who missed the game, most of the Chiefs’ scores came in garbage time; the lopsided affair was 24-0 at halftime, and the Eagles’ first score was a ceremonial Jalen Hurts Tush Push.
    Jess Bryant, The Athletic, 10 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Observance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/observance. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.

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