rite

noun

ˈrīt How to pronounce rite (audio)
Definition of ritenext
as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules the annual summer rite of loading up the car for the big family vacation

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rite Ursone reckoned that the distinct rites and language of their marine tribe would, to polite society, resemble hieroglyphics. — Jasper Craven, New Yorker, 24 July 2026 Legislative intent not to regulate, control, approve, or accredit private educational institutions, churches, their ministries, religious instruction, freedoms, or rites, is explicit. — Peter Greene, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026 Sinon also told Odysseus the fallen Ithacan soldiers were unable to rest because they weren’t honored with proper Greek warrior funeral rites. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 18 July 2026 What was once an annual rite of summer for him has become more rare lately. — Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for rite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rite
  1. ritual
  2. ceremony
Noun
  • Pendleton’s travel-ready design leans into that ritual with a roll-up board printed in one of the heritage brand’s iconic patterns, reversible wooden pieces, and a vegan leather pouch for toting it around.
    — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 8 Aug. 2026
  • My mornings usually began at the in-resort dining spot, Celeste, where breakfast became less of a meal and more of a ritual of soulful cuisine and great service.
    — Datwon Thomas, VIBE.com, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of ritual
Noun
  • Just a few people attended Beloozerov’s funeral – a closed casket ceremony – at a Maryland cemetery in October 2024.
    — Isabelle Chapman, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Lee took up his post in Japan in September 2024 and last year became the first Taiwanese representative from the liaison office to attend the Hiroshima and Nagasaki ceremonies.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of ceremony

Browse Nearby Words

risqué
rite
rites
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rite. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on rite

Nglish: Translation of rite for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rite

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