inaugurate
ih-NAW-gyoo-rayt
/ɪˈnɔːɡjureɪt/
To formally induct an official into office with a ceremony, or to initiate a major project or era.
Carries a sense of ceremonial solemnity and official commencement.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'inaugurare', meaning 'to take omens from the flight of birds'. Ancient Roman priests called augurs observed bird movements before inducting high officials to ensure the gods favored the appointment.
Word relationships
- induct: 'Induct' means bringing someone into an organization, while 'inaugurate' emphasizes the formal ceremonial beginning of an office term.
- launch: 'Launch' applies broadly to projects or products, whereas 'inaugurate' carries ceremonial and governmental connotations.
- terminate: To bring an office term, project, or event to an abrupt end.
- conclude: To bring a formal period or ceremony to a close.
Commonly confused with
- integrate: 'Integrate' means to combine parts into a whole, whereas 'inaugurate' means to induct ceremonially.
Word family
- inauguration (noun): The formal ceremony of inducting someone into office.
- inaugural (adjective): Marking the beginning of an institution, activity, or period of office.
Collocations
- inaugurate a president
- inaugurate a system
- inaugurate an era
- formally inaugurate
Idioms & expressions
- inaugural address
Example sentences
- "The university will inaugurate the new student body president at a ceremony in the main hall." Campus ceremony announcement
- "The inauguration ceremony marked the start of a brand new era for student political representation." Student council press release
Memory hook
An AUGUR looks at birds to celebrate and INAUGURATE a new leader. Bird omens for a new leader.
When not to use
Do not use for casual beginnings, like starting a routine meeting or opening a book.
Fun facts
- Because ancient Roman augurs studied bird flights to bless leaders, every modern presidential 'inauguration' still shares its root with 'augury'!
Related words
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