What does invitational mean?
Invitational is an adjective describing something connected with an invitation, most often an event or competition that is restricted to selected participants. As a noun, it refers to such an event itself: an invitational may be a tournament, championship, showcase, or meeting. The word is especially common in sport, where teams or athletes are entered by invitation rather than through an open qualification process. It can also describe arts and entertainment events, such as a film festival or concert, and may convey exclusivity or prestige. In phrases such as “by invitation only” and “an invitational tournament,” invitational emphasizes controlled access. Although it can imply a formal or high-status occasion, its primary meaning concerns who is permitted to participate rather than the formality of the event.
Relating to an invitation or to an event in which only selected people may participate.
"The club will host an invitational match next month."
Often used for events, tournaments, and gatherings that are not open to general participation.
An event, competition, or gathering attended only by people who have been invited.
"She won her first title at an invitational."
Common in sports, where it may refer to a tournament or match with a restricted field of participants.
The plural is used when referring to multiple invitational competitions or events.
"The players competed in invitationals throughout the summer."
An invitational sounds like a celebration, but its defining feature is access: if you are not on the list, you are not getting in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does invitational come from?
Invitational was formed in the 19th century from the noun invitation and the suffix -al, meaning “pertaining to” or “connected with.” Its ultimate source is the Latin invitare, meaning “to invite,” which also gave English the related words invite, invitation, and inviting. The word developed in contexts involving selectively attended gatherings before becoming especially common in descriptions of sports competitions.
Related word forms
How invitational is actually used
The noun is especially common in sports and entertainment contexts. The adjective often implies that participation is limited or selective, but does not necessarily indicate that the event is formal.
Easily confused with invitational
An invitation is the request or message that asks someone to attend or participate, whereas an invitational is an event or gathering for which attendance is limited to those invited.