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

The inception of ObamaCare offered an enticing target for cost shaving: retiree health coverage.

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Auctions are a feature of a number of T20 franchise leagues, with the Indian Premier League holding one since its inception in 2008.

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It was central to the 1818 novel's inception and sections of the story play out across the length of the nation.

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"Tracking dilepton emissions has allowed us to determine how hot the plasma was and when it started to cool, providing a direct view of conditions just microseconds after the universe's inception."

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Cracker Barrel’s “store atmosphere has remained largely untouched since brand inception,” said a presentation explaining some of Bain’s findings, a copy of which was viewed by The Wall Street Journal.

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Related Words

• initiation 
• outset