inaugural

/ɪnˈɑgjərəl/

/ɪnˈɔgjərəl/

Other forms: inaugurals

An inaugural is a ceremony inducting someone into a new position, especially the President. We also call the President's first speech an inaugural address.

This word has to do with ceremonies and firsts: an inaugural or inaugural address is the first speech made by a President at a ceremony also called the inauguration. This word is highly associated with Presidents, but it can apply to any kind of official first. An inaugural trip to China is a first trip to China. If you want to make a first sound fancy or important, try inaugural.

Definitions of inaugural

1. adjective

   occurring at or characteristic of a formal investiture or induction
   “the President's inaugural address”

   “an inaugural ball”

   antonyms:

   exaugural

   occurring at or marking the close of a term of office

   valedictory

   of a speech expressing leave-taking
2. adjective

   serving to set in motion
   “the magazine's inaugural issue”

   synonyms: first, initiative, initiatory, maiden

   opening

   first or beginning
3. noun

   an address delivered at an inaugural ceremony (especially by a United States president)
   synonyms: inaugural address

   type of:

   address, speech

   the act of delivering a formal spoken communication to an audience
4. noun

   the ceremonial induction into a position
   synonyms: inauguration

   type of:

   induction, initiation, installation

   a formal entry into an organization or position or office