# inaugural

/ˌɪˈnɔɡɝəɫ/ (US) · /ɪnˈɔːɡjʊɹəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inaugural
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the first of a series

adjective · CEFR B2

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

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

- The city held its inaugural film festival last summer and it was a huge success.
- The inaugural meeting of the regional council established a framework for environmental cooperation that would be reviewed annually.

### 2. relating to an induction

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

- The president gave an inaugural speech about unity and hope.
- The president's inaugural address was broadcast globally, outlining the administration's foreign policy priorities for the coming four-year term.

### 3. the ceremony or speech

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · American English

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

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

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

## Examples

- She gave a speech at the inaugural meeting.
- The city hosted its inaugural film festival last summer, drawing thousands of visitors to the downtown area.
- The president's inaugural address focused on national unity and economic recovery, setting a hopeful tone for the administration's first hundred days in office.

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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.