Ceremonial Vocabulary

noun the action of making or declaring something sacred or holy

adjective consecratory (relating to or used in consecration)

• The consecration of the new church took place with a solemn ceremony.
• They're having a consecration ceremony for the new building next week.
• I heard they're throwing a consecration party for their new house.
• The artist considered the act of painting as a form of consecration to his craft.

adjective relating to the beginning or first occurrence of something, such as an event or ceremony

• The president delivered a powerful speech at his inaugural ceremony.
• I can't believe it's already time for the inaugural event.
• The inaugural party was lit!
• The first day of school felt like my inaugural into a new chapter of life.

noun a formal ceremony to mark the beginning of a leader's term in office

• The inauguration of the new president will take place next week.
• Are you going to the inauguration ceremony this weekend?
• I heard the inauguration party is going to be lit!
• The inauguration of the new project marked a new beginning for the company.

noun the activities and traditions associated with formal events and ceremonies

• The pageantry of the royal wedding was truly breathtaking.
• The pageantry at the parade was so cool to see.
• The pageantry at the concert was lit!
• The pageantry of the event was like a colorful tapestry unfolding before our eyes.

adjective relating to or characteristic of a priest or priesthood

• The priestly duties include administering sacraments and leading worship services.
• The priestly robes were embroidered with intricate designs.
• Some people believe that priestly life is boring, but I think it's pretty cool.
• Her priestly presence brought a sense of peace and comfort to those around her.

noun a type of ceremonial procession

adjective relating to a procession or procession

• The processional of dignitaries made their way into the ceremony hall.
• We joined the processional of students walking to the graduation ceremony.
• I can't believe we got stuck in that long processional of cars on the highway.
• The processional of thoughts in her mind seemed never-ending.

noun a religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order

adjective relating to or characteristic of a ritual

• The religious ritual was performed with great reverence and precision.
• Every morning, my coffee ritual involves brewing a fresh pot and enjoying it on the porch.
• Our pre-game ritual before every match is to blast our favorite pump-up song in the locker room.
• The daily ritual of checking her phone for messages became a comforting habit.

adverb In a serious or formal manner; with deep sincerity or reverence.

• The judge solemnly declared the court session open.
• She solemnly promised to keep the secret.
• He solemnly swore he didn't eat the last piece of cake.
• The old oak tree stood solemnly in the middle of the field, a silent witness to the passage of time.

noun a person who is devoted to a particular belief, practice, or way of worship

adjective relating to or characteristic of a votary

• The votary prayed diligently at the temple every day.
• She's a true votary of the latest fashion trends.
• I'm a total votary for that new video game.
• As a votary of peace, she always sought diplomatic solutions to conflicts.