Celebrate
Pronunciation
- UK IPA: /ˈsɛl.ɪ.bɹeɪt/, /ˈsɛl.ə.bɹeɪt/
Origin
From Latin celebratus, pp. of celebrare ("frequent, go to in great numbers, celebrate, honor, praise"), from celeber ("frequented, populous").
Full definition of celebrate
Verb
- (transitive) To extol or honour in a solemn manner.to celebrate the name of the Most High
- (transitive) To honour by rites, by ceremonies of joy and respect, or by refraining from ordinary business; to observe duly; to keep.to celebrate a birthday
- 1907, w, The Dust of Conflict Chapter 20, Hester Earle and Violet Wayne were moving about the aisle with bundles of wheat-ears and streamers of ivy, for the harvest thanksgiving was shortly to be celebrated, while the vicar stood waiting for their directions on the chancel steps with a great handful of crimson gladioli.
- (intransitive) To engage in joyful activity in appreciation of an event.I was promoted today at work—let’s celebrate!
- 2012, May 5, Phil McNulty, Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool, As Di Matteo celebrated and captain John Terry raised the trophy for the fourth time, the Italian increased his claims to become the permanent successor to Andre Villas-Boas by landing a trophy.
- (transitive) To perform or participate in, as a sacrament or solemn rite; to solemnize; to perform with appropriate rites.to celebrate a marriage
Usage notes
In sense “to conduct ceremonies, to follow a customâ€, generally used of festive occasions, such as Christmas and birthdays. For more solemn occasions, particularly certain religious holidays (“holy daysâ€) and commemorations, the term observe is used instead, as in “This office will be closed in observance of Veterans Day.â€
Synonyms
- (extol, honour (someone)) fete