invitation

noun

in·​vi·​ta·​tion ˌin-və-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce invitation (audio)
Synonyms of invitationnext
1
a
: the act of inviting
b
: an often formal request to be present or participate
2
: incentive, inducement

Examples of invitation in a Sentence

We sent out more than 100 invitations for the party.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Thursday that Putin had received an invitation to attend the G20 summit in Miami in December but hasn't yet decided whether to go. — Arkansas Online, 23 Oct. 2026 Since 1994, Hammerpress has been known for making greeting cards, posters and custom invitations with its mid-20th-century machines. — Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2026 News coverage of a poll that doesn’t favor a political party is not an invitation to meddle in an election through intimidation. — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2026 The clay tables and details such as the imposing tapestry by artist Mariadela Araujo that dominates the front wall are invitations to experience the colors of Seville from a different perspective. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for invitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of invitation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing invitation

Rhymes for invitation

See All Rhymes for invitation

Browse Nearby Words

invitant
invitation
invitational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Invitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/invitation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

invitation

noun
in·​vi·​ta·​tion ˌin-və-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce invitation (audio)
1
: the act of inviting
2
: the written, printed, or spoken expression by which a person is invited
invitational
-shnəl, 
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

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