WordGarden.ioinaugural
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnˈɔːɡjʊrəl/
US
- /ˌɪˈnɔɡərəl/
Meanings
Adjective
first in a series or marking the beginning of something
relating to the formal start of a public office or official role
Noun
an inauguration ceremony or inaugural address
Beyond the definition
Think of the start of something important: a new president taking office, the first season of a league, or the opening event for a new program. That first official event or period can be called inaugural. The word often has a formal tone, so it fits best when something is being started in a noticeable way. You might hear about an inaugural address, an inaugural season, or an inaugural ceremony. It is all about an important first beginning.
"Inaugural" describes something that marks the beginning of something important, especially the first official event, speech, term, season, or ceremony. It often appears when a person is entering office or when an organization, venue, or series is starting for the first time. The word has a formal feel and usually suggests that the beginning matters.
You will most commonly hear it in political contexts, such as an inaugural address given by a newly elected leader or inaugural ceremonies marking the start of a term. But the word is not limited to politics. A league can have an inaugural season, a theater can hold an inaugural performance, and a conference can open with its inaugural event.
It is important to remember that inaugural refers to the first official instance of something, not just an early one. If you say "the inaugural season," you mean the very first season that league or organization has ever had. Because of that, the word often suggests a fresh start and a sense of importance.
For example: "The museum celebrated its inaugural exhibition with a special event." Or, "The new women's league began with an inaugural match in front of a large crowd."
Examples
- 1
Public office
In her inaugural speech, the new mayor promised to improve public transport.
- 2
First flight
The airline sold every seat on its inaugural flight to Seoul.
- 3
First season
The club reached the playoffs in its inaugural season.
- 4
First issue
The magazine's inaugural issue featured interviews with local artists.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Academic lecture
She was invited to give the inaugural lecture at the new medical school.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- inaugural address
- inaugural ceremony
- inaugural meeting
- inaugural season
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- inauguraladjectivenoun