Definition of: ceremony

(ser′ə·mō′nē) noun plural ·nies
1. A formal or symbolical act or observance, or a series of them, as on religious and state occasions.
2. The doing of some formal act in the manner prescribed by authority or usage: the ceremonies at an ordination, inauguration, or coronation.
3. Mere outward form.
4. Observance of etiquette or conventional forms in social matters; formal civility; adherence to the prescribed forms of amenity.
—to stand on ceremony
1. To observe conventions.
2. To be formal, stiff, or uncordial. See synonyms under FORM, SACRAMENT. [<OF cerymonie <L caerimonia awe, veneration]