|
| rit·u·al [ ríchoo əl ] |
noun (plural rit·u·als) |
|
| Definition: |
| |
1. established formal behavior: an established and prescribed pattern of observance, e.g. in a religion
|
2. performance of formal acts: the observance of actions or procedures in a set, ordered, and ceremonial way
(
often used before a noun
)
  a ritual dance
|
3. system of rites: the system of set procedures and actions of a group
Orthodox ritual
|
4. unchanging pattern: a pattern of actions or words followed regularly and precisely
(
informal
)
the weekend car-washing ritual
|
5. biology set form of communication: a set sequence of actions that an animal uses to communicate information or to reinforce social cohesion
mating rituals
|
6. psychology repetitive behavior: an inflexible, stylized, and often repetitive sequence of actions, e.g. repeated hand-washing, that may indicate an obsession
|
7. book of ceremonies: a book containing rites or ceremonial procedures, especially religious rites
|
adjective |
|
| Definition: |
| |
1. following pattern: done regularly and in precisely the same way each time
her ritual morning exercises
|
2. of rite: relating to or done as a ceremonial rite
ritual observance
|
| [Late 16th century. < Latin ritualis< ritus (see rite)] |
|
| rit·u·al·ly adverb |
|
