inaugural
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.describes the very first time an event happens, especially when it will happen again in the future.
adj.marking the beginning of an operation, venture, or series of events.
Simple“The city held its inaugural film festival last summer and it was a huge success.”
In context“The inaugural meeting of the regional council established a framework for environmental cooperation that would be reviewed annually.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
adj.relating to a formal ceremony where someone starts an important new job, like a president.
adj.pertaining to an inauguration, particularly the formal induction of a person into an office or position.
Simple“The president gave an inaugural speech about unity and hope.”
In context“The president's inaugural address was broadcast globally, outlining the administration's foreign policy priorities for the coming four-year term.”
Synonymsinductioninvestiture - 03 C1 Advanced
n.the formal ceremony or the speech given when someone starts a high-level job.
n.a formal ceremony of induction or the specific address delivered at such an event.
Simple“Thousands of people gathered in the capital to watch the inaugural.”
In context“Security was tightened significantly in the weeks leading up to the inaugural to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitaries.”
Usageoften used in American political contexts to refer to the day a president takes office.
Synonyms
“Despite feeling "absolutely terrified" during the event's inaugural mixed 4x100m relay, Asher-Smith, world 200m champion in 2019, leaves Birmingham a 22-time international medallist in her senior career.”
“The Los Angeles Queens, the New York Heights, the Boston Hunters and the San Francisco Firebells take the field in Springfield, Ill., as the Women's Pro Baseball League kicks off its inaugural season.”
From French inaugural, from inaugurer, from Latin augurare (“to take omens”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.