English Reference

Word

ritualistic

Phoneticsrit·u·al·is·tic

US/ˌɹɪtʃuəˈɫɪstɪk/

UK/ɹˌɪtʃuːəlˈɪstɪk/

Definition

adj. done in a way that follows a strict set of steps or rules, often for a religious or social reason. It describes something that is done the same way every time, even if it is not necessary.

adj. relating to or performed in a manner that follows a fixed, traditional sequence of actions. Often implies a repetitive or ceremonial quality that may lack a practical purpose.

Examples

“The morning coffee routine is very ritualistic for him.”

“The team's pre-game warm-up is highly ritualistic, involving specific stretches and chants that have been passed down for years.”

“While the ceremony was intended to be a simple celebration, the guests found the proceedings increasingly ritualistic, as every minor movement was dictated by an ancient set of rules.”

Examples

simple

“The morning coffee routine is very ritualistic for him.”

contextual

“The team's pre-game warm-up is highly ritualistic, involving specific stretches and chants that have been passed down for years.”

complex

“While the ceremony was intended to be a simple celebration, the guests found the proceedings increasingly ritualistic, as every minor movement was dictated by an ancient set of rules.”

Real-World Examples

“Over the years, the phrase “shifting power locally” became an almost ritualistic election chant, clearly based on polling data.”
The Guardian · 25 Sept 2026
“But Blue Bottle’s Jessie Washburn said the Moka Express offers a ritualistic simplicity and nostalgia that are unmatched by other coffee makers.”
The New York Times · 8 Jan 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

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English Reference