ordination

noun

or·​di·​na·​tion ˌȯr-də-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce ordination (audio)
Synonyms of ordinationnext
: the act or an instance of ordaining : the state of being ordained

Examples of ordination in a Sentence

He is a candidate for ordination. After his ordination, he will be assigned to a local parish.
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.
Birds are also ahead in co-ordination. — David Hambling, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 While the pope has appealed to the society not to go ahead with the ordinations of bishops, the group is well-advanced with its preparations. — Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 30 June 2026 Most students who complete these programs are not seeking traditional ordination as rabbis. — Michal Raucher, The Conversation, 30 Apr. 2026 There are nearly 23,000 active Catholic parishes — but new priestly ordinations haven't started to bounce back. — ABC News, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ordination

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ordination was in the 14th century

Rhymes for ordination

See All Rhymes for ordination

Browse Nearby Words

ordinate
ordination
ordinator
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Cite this Entry

“Ordination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ordination. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ordination

noun
or·​di·​na·​tion ˌȯrd-ᵊn-ˈā-shən How to pronounce ordination (audio)
: the act of ordaining : the state of being ordained
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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