initiation — English Dictionary

Noun

1. The act of initiating, or the process of being initiated or introduced.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   initiation into a society

   initiation into business

   More examples (1)

   initiation into literature

2. The form or ceremony by which a person is introduced into any society; mode of entrance into an organized body; especially, the rite of admission into a secret society or order.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

3. The first step of transcription or of transduction.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. a formal entry into an organization or position or office

   Synonyms

   inductioninstallation

   Broader terms

   ceremonyceremonialceremonial occasionobservance

   Examples

   his initiation into the club

   he was ordered to report for induction into the army

   More examples (1)

   he gave a speech as part of his installation into the hall of fame

2. the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new

   Synonyms

   foundingfoundationinstitutionoriginationcreationinnovationintroductioninstauration

   Broader terms

   beginningstartcommencement

   Examples

   she looked forward to her initiation as an adult

   the foundation of a new scientific society

3. wisdom as evidenced by the possession of knowledge

   Synonyms

   knowledgeabilityknowledgeableness

   Broader terms

   wisdomwiseness

   Examples

   his knowledgeability impressed me

   his dullness was due to lack of initiation

4. an act that sets in motion some course of events

   Synonyms

   triggerinduction

   Broader terms

   causingcausation