inception

American  

[in-sep-shuhn] / ɪnˈsɛp ʃən /

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.

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inception British  

/ ɪnˈsɛpʃən /

noun

1. the beginning, as of a project or undertaking

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Etymology

Origin of inception

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

“We’re increasingly partnering with institutions that want investment exposure to technology companies at the earliest inception stages,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Since its inception in the 1980s, surrogacy has been described by industry leaders and practitioners as an intimate gift to struggling parents from generous surrogates.

From The Wall Street Journal

Its proud boast is that, since its inception in the Bush I administration, it has never been compromised.

From Los Angeles Times

Cash Cows 100 ETF, just turned 10 years old and has lagged behind the market since inception.

From Barron's

Cash Cows 100 ETF, just turned 10 years old and has lagged behind the market since inception.

From Barron's

Related Words

• initiation
• outset