What does rite mean?
A rite is a prescribed, solemn ceremony or customary act, often connected with religion, community tradition, or an important transition in life. The word is more formal than event or gathering and suggests that the practice has an established meaning or social significance. Examples include a religious rite, a family rite, and a rite of passage such as graduation or marriage. Although rites can be solemn and traditional, the word does not necessarily imply that they are religious; it can also describe established ceremonial customs within a community. In everyday use, rite is most often encountered in expressions such as rite of passage and in discussions of religious or cultural traditions.
nounA solemn or prescribed ceremony, especially one associated with religious observance or a significant stage in life. In broader use, it can refer to any established form of ceremonial practice.
- A religious or solemn ceremony, especially one prescribed by custom or doctrine.
- A customary or established form of ceremonial practice, as in a rite of passage.
- A solemn act or formal observance with particular social or religious significance.
"The ceremony was an ancient rite marking the beginning of the harvest."
"The ancient rite was performed at sunrise by the community's elders."
"Graduation has become a rite of passage for many students and their families."
Used when referring to multiple ceremonies, observances, or customary acts.
"The book describes the rites performed before and after the wedding."
From Latin ritus, meaning a custom or prescribed practice, a rite began as a shared way of doing things and could carry the weight of tradition, belief, and belonging.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rite come from?
The English word rite comes through French from Latin rītus, meaning a custom, practice, or prescribed ceremony. In Latin it referred especially to a religious or formal custom. Its development preserves the sense of a tradition-governed ceremonial practice, and the related English word ritual was formed from the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How rite is actually used
Rite is more formal and solemn than ceremony in many contexts, although the words can overlap. It is commonly used for religious observances, formal traditions, and symbolic transitions.
Easily confused with rite
A rite is a prescribed ceremony or ritual, whereas a right is something morally justified, a privilege, or the opposite direction.