Celebration

Definition

Celebration is a noun. It refers to a social gathering or event organized to commemorate or honor a special occasion, achievement, or holiday, often marked by joyful activities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsɛləˈbreɪʃən/
• Respelling: sel-uh-BRAY-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsɛlɪˈbreɪʃən/
• Respelling: sel-i-BRAY-shuhn

Etymology

The word "celebration" originates from the Latin term "celebratio," which comes from "celebrare," meaning "to honor" or "to attend in large numbers." It was adopted into Middle French as "celebration," and eventually entered English in the late 15th century to mean a ceremonial gathering or act of commemorating a special event.

Derivatives

• Celebrate (verb)
• Celebratory (adjective)
• Celebrant (noun)
• Celebrationist (noun)
• Celebrator (noun)

Synonyms

• Festival
• Commemoration
• Party

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "celebration" is used to describe an event or act that honors or commemorates something special, often involving joyful gatherings or festivities. For example, "They held a celebration for her graduation," or "The celebration included music and dancing."

Related Terms

• Festival: A large gathering or event, often involving celebration.
• Ceremony: A formal event marking an occasion, sometimes involving celebration.
• Anniversary: A date marking a special event's recurrence, often celebrated.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An event held to honor or commemorate a special occasion: Refers to a social or formal gathering organized to celebrate a specific milestone, holiday, or achievement.
  • Example: "The town organized a grand celebration for the New Year."
• The act of marking a special day or event with joyful activities: Used to describe the collective actions or customs involved in honoring an occasion.
  • Example: "Her birthday celebration included a small family dinner."