RITUAL Synonyms: 106 Similar and Opposite Words

ritual 1 of 2

noun

Definition of ritual

as in habit

a usual manner of behaving or doing her morning ritual is to enjoy a bracing cup of coffee while reading the newspaper

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in ceremony

an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules a ritual that the ancient peoples of that country believed would bring rain

Synonyms & Similar Words

ritual

2 of 2

adjective

as in ceremonial

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

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 ritual

Noun

The temple also holds an annual elephant race and a feeding ritual where, following prayers, the animals are given rice, ghee, jaggery, fruits and vegetables. — ABC News, 3 July 2026 Home turf becomes a clinching advantage only when the Cup becomes a collective ritual—when players feel the crowd’s will, opponents struggle against it, and the broader society talks about the team’s as its own. — Michael Morris, Time, 1 July 2026

Adjective

With its gentle rhythm and soothing illustrations, the story creates a calming bedtime ritual as the bunny bids farewell to everything in his world one by one. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 26 June 2026 The ritual confers the Holy Spirit from one bishop to another and recalls Christ’s gesture to his apostles. — Jamey Keaten, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for ritual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ritual

Noun

Update a profile photo or choose one small habit that supports your body and mood.

— Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2026
This has impacted every aspect of his life — sleep, eating habits and his controlling attitude toward me.

— Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 4 July 2026

Definition of habit

Noun

He is slated to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan upon arrival, then participate in a bilateral meeting with him after an arrival ceremony, followed by a NATO leaders’ dinner.

— Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 7 July 2026
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce reportedly presented 20-minute vows to each other during their wedding ceremony.

— Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 6 July 2026

Definition of ceremony

Adjective

Since February, archaeologists have discovered eight human skeletons, bronze and gold jewelry, pottery and other artifacts indicating a ceremonial burial of wealthy people or members of the society’s upper classes.

— ABC News, ABC News, 6 July 2026
Among those in this summer’s free-agency pool is former Heat guard Kyle Lowry, who Tuesday is expected to sign a ceremonial one-day contract with Toronto to retire as a member of the Raptors.

— Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 July 2026

Definition of ceremonial

Noun

In March, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung warned on X that oil refiners and corporations engaged in price-fixing would be held accountable, vowing to deploy all lawful measures against unethical business practices.

— Jenny Lee, CNBC, 6 July 2026
Even with this practice, there should be an effort, if possible, to avoid training or competition during the hottest times of day.

— Nicole Williams, AJC.com, 6 July 2026

Definition of practice

Noun

The society rejected that change, citing a desire for the Latin rite's sense of mystery and formality.

— Joshua McElwee, USA Today, 2 July 2026
In the consecration rite, Bishop Alfonso de Galarreta, who was excommunicated after being consecrated without papal consent in 1988, placed his hands on the head of each of the four new bishops.

— Jamey Keaten, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

Definition of rite

Adjective

The Cupichs attended a parish where mass was celebrated in Latin (the liturgical changes of the Second Vatican Council were yet to come) but the sermons were spoken in Croatian.

— René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 July 2026
Alongside official ceremonies and liturgical events, Leo is expected to emphasize his concern for marginalized communities.

— Tiago Ventura, Time, 6 June 2026

Definition of liturgical

Noun

The trick is to widen your view deliberately, one angle at a time, because each new angle surfaces buyers the last one missed.

— Lien De Pau, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Now, as heat waves wash over cities from London to Palm Springs, people are embracing this tried-and-true trick with the Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad.

— Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2026

Definition of trick

Noun

Congress officially designated the last Monday in September to honor that observance.

— Terry Collins, USA Today, 28 June 2026
The June nonfarm payrolls report is due out Thursday instead of the usual Friday because the market is closed Friday in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

— Jeff Marks, CNBC, 26 June 2026

Definition of observance

Browse Nearby Words

rites

ritual

ritualistic

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Ritual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ritual. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of ritual

noun

adjective

Example Sentences

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