commencement — The beginning or start of something, especially a formal ceremony marking the start or completion of an academic program.
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: The beginning or start of something, especially a formal ceremony marking the start or completion of an academic program.
Pronunciation (IPA): /kəˈmensmənt/
Example Sentences
- The commencement speaker accidentally called the graduates 'prisoners' instead of 'graduates' - it was quite embarrassing!
- The commencement of online classes marked a new era in education.
- At commencement, half the parents cried more than their graduating children.
commencement
NOUN[/kəˈmensmənt/]
The beginning or start of something, especially a formal ceremony marking the start or completion of an academic program.
The commencement ceremony began at exactly ten o'clock.
The commencement of construction is scheduled for next Monday. (▶️ Beginning + 🚩 Official Start → Commencement)
The commencement of the program led to advancement and eventual achievement.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'com-' (together) and 'initiare' (to begin), literally meaning 'to begin together.' The graduation ceremony meaning comes from the idea that graduates are starting their new lives together.
Breakdown
com- (together/with) + initiate (to begin) + -ment (noun suffix indicating action or result)
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“The commencement speaker accidentally called the graduates 'prisoners' instead of 'graduates' - it was quite embarrassing!”
“The commencement of online classes marked a new era in education.”
“At commencement, half the parents cried more than their graduating children.”
“The commencement of the project has been delayed due to budget constraints.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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