initiation

/ɪnɪʃiˈeɪʃɪn/

/ɪnɪʃiˈeɪʃən/

Other forms: initiations

The initiation of something is the beginning. It's what sets events in motion, gets the party underway, or kicks off a new program.

An initiation can also be an introduction into something, formally or informally. You might undergo an initiation ceremony when you join the Girl Scouts for the first time, or have a rude initiation into the world of traffic law when you get your first speeding ticket. But beware of the initiation rituals for college frats — you could find yourself swallowing a live goldfish or streaking across campus in your tighty-whiteys.

Definitions of initiation

1. noun

   the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new
   “she looked forward to her initiation as an adult”

   synonyms: creation, foundation, founding, innovation, instauration, institution, introduction, origination

   types:

   authorship, paternity

   the act of initiating a new idea or theory or writing

   type of:

   beginning, commencement, start

   the act of starting something
2. noun

   an act that sets in motion some course of events
   synonyms: induction, trigger

   types:

   fomentation, instigation

   deliberate and intentional triggering (of trouble or discord)

   type of:

   causation, causing

   the act of causing something to happen
3. noun

   a formal entry into an organization or position or office
   “his initiation into the club”

   synonyms: induction, installation

   types:

   inaugural, inauguration

   the ceremonial induction into a position

   coronation, enthronement, enthronisation, enthronization, investiture

   the ceremony of installing a new monarch

   bar mitzvah

   (Judaism) an initiation ceremony marking the 13th birthday of a Jewish boy and signifying the beginning of religious responsibility

   bas mitzvah, bat mitzvah, bath mitzvah

   (Judaism) an initiation ceremony marking the 12th birthday of a Jewish girl and signifying the beginning of religious responsibility

   type of:

   ceremonial, ceremonial occasion, ceremony, observance

   a formal event performed on a special occasion
4. noun

   wisdom as evidenced by the possession of knowledge
   “his dullness was due to lack of initiation”

   synonyms: knowledgeability, knowledgeableness

   type of:

   wisdom, wiseness

   the trait of utilizing knowledge and experience with common sense and insight