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cérémonial

Cérémonial is a French term that functions as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes anything related to formal ceremonies or the practice of rites. As a noun, it can denote the formal protocol, the set of rites, or the texts and procedures used during a ceremonial occasion. In this sense, a "cérémonial" encompasses the sequence of actions, the required attire, insignia, and the official language or declarations that accompany an event.

In state, religious, and institutional contexts, "cérémonial" refers to the prescribed order and etiquette of ceremonies.

Etymology and usage notes: the word derives from Latin caerimonialis, through Old French ceremonie, and has

See also: ceremony, protocol, etiquette.

Political
or
royal
ceremonies,
for
example,
are
governed
by
a
precise
"cérémonial"
that
prescribes
processions,
greetings,
and
the
roles
of
participants.
In
religious
settings,
rites,
liturgies,
and
processions
may
be
described
as
part
of
the
ceremonial
tradition.
The
term
thus
spans
etiquette,
protocol,
and
the
formal
content
of
ceremonial
acts.
a
cognate
in
English,
ceremonial.
In
English,
ceremonial
likewise
denotes
formal
rites
and
can
function
as
a
noun
to
mean
the
rites
themselves
or
the
ceremonial
aspects
of
an
event;
it
is
common
in
phrases
such
as
state
ceremonial
or
ritual
and
ceremonial.