inception

[ in-sep-shuhn ]

noun

1. beginning; start; commencement.

   Synonyms: conception, root, source, outset, origin

2. British.
   1. the act of graduating or earning a university degree, usually a master's or doctor's degree, especially at Cambridge University.
   2. the graduation ceremony; commencement.
3. (in science fiction) the act of instilling an idea into someone's mind by entering their dreams.

inception

/ ɪnˈsɛpʃən /

noun

1. the beginning, as of a project or undertaking

Word History and Origins

Origin of inception¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English incepcion, from Latin inceptiōn- (stem of inceptiō ), equivalent to incept(us) “begun” ( incept ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

Since its inception, the EPA has been outgunned by the profitable chemical industry, whose experts create relatively rosy narratives about their products.

From Salon

The stage musical has received its fair share of criticism since its inception 20 years ago for always casting an able-bodied performer as Nessarose.

From Salon

History shows it has been with us since the inception of our country and has been a staple of human nature since we crawled out of the caves.

From Salon

Trump has praised the lucrative LIV tour, and five of its tournaments have been been held at his courses since its inception in June 2022.

From BBC

Trump has praised the lucrative LIV tour for its "unlimited money", and five of its tournaments have been been held at his courses since its inception in June 2022.

From BBC

Related Words

• initiation
• outset