ceremonial

Everyday

1. Used in or connected with a ceremony, an official or special event (a ceremonial sword). tree →
2. Having a title or role for show, without real power (a ceremonial leader). tree →
3. A ceremonial can also be the set of formal rules and actions followed at a special occasion. tree →

In the lessons

In history and civics: ceremonial dress, ceremonial guards, a ceremonial role of a king or queen. In stories: ceremonial robes at a coronation. Phrases: ceremonial occasion, ceremonial duties.

Examples

• The guards wore ceremonial uniforms. tree →
• The mayor cut the ribbon with ceremonial scissors. tree →
• The king's role is mostly ceremonial. tree →
• The tribe performed a ceremonial dance. tree →
• A ceremonial sword hung on the wall. tree →
• The ship was launched with a ceremonial bottle of water. tree →
• A state ceremonial in a city some distance off caused the prince to ride away at daybreak, and he left without seeing his wife again. tree →

Note

Stress: ser-uh-MOH-nee-ul. Do not confuse with «ceremonious» (very formal, polite in manner). Noun: ceremony, plural ceremonies.