cer·e·mo·ny
Pronounced:
/ˈserəˌmoʊni/
Function:
nounInflected forms:
plural cer·e·mo·niesMeaning:
1 [count] : a formal act or event that is a part of a social or religious occasion ▪ graduation/wedding ceremonies ▪ There will be a ceremony honoring the town's veterans next week. —see also master of ceremonies
2 [noncount] : very polite or formal behavior ▪ With great ceremony, the children presented each of the visitors with a gift. ▪ He told them abruptly and without ceremony that they would have to leave.
2 [noncount] : very polite or formal behavior ▪ With great ceremony, the children presented each of the visitors with a gift. ▪ He told them abruptly and without ceremony that they would have to leave.
stand on ceremony
: to insist on doing the things that are usual or expected in polite or formal behavior —usually used in negative statements ▪ He doesn't stand on ceremony, he gets the job done.