encaenia

American  

[en-seen-yuh, -see-nee-uh] / ɛnˈsin yə, -ˈsi ni ə /

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) festive ceremonies commemorating the founding of a city or the consecration of a church.

2. (often initial capital letter) ceremonies at Oxford University in honor of founders and benefactors.

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encaenia British  

/ ɛnˈsiːnɪə /

noun

1. rare a festival of dedication or commemoration

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Etymology

Origin of encaenia

1350–1400; Middle English < Late Latin < Greek enkaínia (neuter plural), equivalent to en- en- ² + -kainia, derivative of kainós new

Example Sentences

Encaenia is the ceremony at which the university awards honorary degrees to distinguished men and women, and commemorates its benefactors.

From BBC

Christ Church was thrilled to host Sir Lenny Henry as he received an honorary degree from the University of Oxford during the annual Encaenia ceremony today!

From BBC

When he attended Encaenia, Oxford's honorary degree-giving ceremony and a great social occasion, his presence did not go unnoticed.

From BBC

Then they were spot on for their final 12 spellings combined, acing dark-corner-of-the-dictionary stuff like “thymelici,” ”encaenia,” ”skandhas,” ”sdrucciola” and “holluschick.”

From Washington Times

Ms Suu Kyi was awarded the degree during Oxford's annual Encaenia ceremony.

From BBC