Ceremonialism
/ˌsɛr.ɪˈmoʊ.ni.əˌlɪz.əm/noun
The practice or emphasis on ceremonial forms, rituals, and formal observances.
Did you know?Its core root goes back to Latin *caerimonia*, a word for sacred rites and reverent observance, showing how language can preserve the idea that ritual itself has power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*k̂er-
“To watch over, heed, or protect”
Latin
Latin
caerimonia
“Sacred observance, religious rite, reverent formality”
Late Latin
Latin
caerimonialis
“Pertaining to rites or formal observance”
Old French
Old French
ceremonie
“A formal religious rite or solemn observance”
Middle English
English
ceremonie
“A ritual, religious service, or formal act”
Modern English
English
ceremonialism
“The doctrine or practice of giving importance to ceremonial forms”