C1adjectiveformalhistorysociety
US/ˌser.əˈmoʊ.ni.əl/
UK/ˌser.ɪˈməʊ.ni.əl/
used in or connected with a ceremony, or done only for show or custom
In context
Archaeologists believe the large stone circle had a ceremonial purpose.
The president wore ceremonial robes at the opening of the new parliament.
The king still holds a mostly ceremonial role in the government.
Words that go with ceremonial
adjective + noun
- ceremonial roleThe mayor has a purely ceremonial role.
- ceremonial purposesThe knife was used for ceremonial purposes only.
- ceremonial dressGuests arrived in traditional ceremonial dress.
- ceremonial siteThe hill was an important ceremonial site.
- ceremonial objectA gold cup was the most valuable ceremonial object found.
adverb + adjective
- purely ceremonialThe title is purely ceremonial.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
ceremony siteCorrect: ceremonial site