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Definition of ceremonious

ceremonious

/ˌsɛr.əˈmoʊ.ni.əs/
cer · e · mo · ni · ous
Adverb:ceremoniously
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ceremonious Lexical Profile

ceremonious Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, used for, or characterized by strict formality, grand ritual, or punctilious politeness.

Example

"The ambassador greeted the visiting delegation with a deep, ceremonious bow."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ceremonious
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ceremonious

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'ceremonious' with 'ceremonial': 'ceremonious' describes people or manners that are punctiliously polite and attached to formality (e.g., a ceremonious bow), whereas 'ceremonial' describes objects, dress, or events used in an official ritual (e.g., ceremonial robes).

• Rhymes for ceremonious

• Nearby Words

ceremonial
ceremonialist
ceremonially
ceremonious
ceremoniously
ceremony
ceres

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Middle French 'cérémonieux' or Late Latin 'caerimoniosus', derived from Latin 'caerimonia' ('sacredness, religious rite').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ceremonious. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ceremonious
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