accession

Everyday

1. (formal) Coming to the throne or to an important position: «the king's accession» is when he became king. tree →
2. (formal) Joining an organisation or agreement: «accession to the European Union». tree →
3. A new item added to a collection, such as a book added to a library or an object to a museum. tree →

In the lessons

In history lessons it is used for kings and queens: «after his accession to the throne». In news about countries it means joining a group of countries. In libraries and museums an «accession number» is the number given to a new item. Phrases: «accession to the throne», «Accession Day».

Examples

• After her accession to the throne, the queen gave a speech. tree →
• The country celebrated the new king's accession. tree →
• Ukraine has asked for accession to the European Union. tree →
• The museum's newest accession is a Roman coin. tree →
• Every library book has an accession number. tree →
• The history book lists each monarch's accession and death. tree →

Note

Formal word. Do not confuse with «access» (a way in) or «succession» (one after another; who comes next to the throne). Countable: «accessions» for new items. Verb: accede (formal).