ENGLISH
REFERENCE

inaugural

adj. · n.
US //ˌɪˈnɔɡɝəɫ// UK //ɪnˈɔːɡjʊɹəl// in·au·gu·ral
  1. 1 the first of a series (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes the very first time an event happens, especially when it will happen again in the future.

    marking the beginning of an operation, venture, or series of events.

    Example

    The city held its inaugural film festival last summer and it was a huge success.

    Example

    The inaugural meeting of the regional council established a framework for environmental cooperation that would be reviewed annually.
  2. 2 relating to an induction (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    relating to a formal ceremony where someone starts an important new job, like a president.

    pertaining to an inauguration, particularly the formal induction of a person into an office or position.

    Example

    The president gave an inaugural speech about unity and hope.

    Example

    The president's inaugural address was broadcast globally, outlining the administration's foreign policy priorities for the coming four-year term.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 the ceremony or speech (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal American English Law

    the formal ceremony or the speech given when someone starts a high-level job.

    a formal ceremony of induction or the specific address delivered at such an event.

    Example

    Thousands of people gathered in the capital to watch the inaugural.

    Example

    Security was tightened significantly in the weeks leading up to the inaugural to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.

    Usage

    often used in American political contexts to refer to the day a president takes office.
Origin

From French inaugural, from inaugurer, from Latin augurare (“to take omens”).

© 2026 English Reference