# acception

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acception
Updated: 2026-06-04

## Definition

the act of accepting something or the state of being accepted. It is an old word that is rarely used in modern conversation.

For teachers: the act of receiving or taking something; the state of being accepted or received. Often used in legal or theological contexts to describe the formal reception of a person or document.

## Examples

- The acception of the new rules was delayed.
- The acception of the treaty by the local council marked the end of the long-standing dispute.
- In medieval theology, the acception of the sacrament was considered a vital moment of spiritual union between the individual and the divine, requiring both physical presence and mental intent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.