graduation

UK: ˌɡrædʒ.uˈeɪ.ʃən | US: ˌɡrædʒ.uˈeɪ.ʃən

Definition

  1. n. the act of receiving or conferring an academic degree or diploma

  2. n. the ceremony marking the completion of a course of study

  3. n. a mark or division indicating stages (e.g., on a measuring instrument)

Structure
gradu <step, degree>ation <noun suffix>gradu <step, degree>ation <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to Latin gradus ("step"), evolving through Medieval Latin graduatio ("a stepping by degrees"). It entered English in the 15th century, initially referring to hierarchical steps or stages. By the 17th century, it specialized to denote academic advancement, mirroring the metaphorical "climbing of steps" in education. The suffix -ation solidifies its meaning as the process of achieving a degree.

Examples

  1. Her graduation ceremony will be held in the university’s main hall.

  2. After years of hard work, he finally celebrated his graduation.

  3. The thermometer’s graduation marks each degree Celsius.

  4. She felt a mix of joy and nostalgia on her graduation day.

  5. The project’s graduation to the next phase requires approval.