participation

American  

[pahr-tis-uh-pey-shuhn] / pɑrˌtɪs əˈpeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. an act or instance of participating.

2. the fact of taking part, as in some action or attempt.

   participation in a celebration.

3. a sharing, as in benefits or profits.

   participation in a pension plan.

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adjective

1. of or relating to a venture characterized by more than one person, bank, or company participating in risk or profit.

   a participation loan.

Other Word Forms

• preparticipation
  noun
• underparticipation
  noun

Etymology

Origin of participation

First recorded in 1325–75; from Late Latin participātiōn-, stem of participātiō; equivalent to participate + -ion; replacing Middle English participacioun, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin, as above

Explanation

Participation in extracurricular activities makes you a well-rounded person. Getting involved in different groups and pursuits is not only educational, but also an opportunity to make lifelong friends. Notice that the first syllable in this noun is part-, as in, “take part.” Participation is the act of participating, or being related to a larger whole. Another word for this is involvement. A person can enjoy participation in a club, a celebration, or even a conversation.

Example Sentences

Certainly, Coppins’ participation was something the editors wanted from the beginning; after taking on the story, the writer began outlining whom he would interview for the piece.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

But if you are selling anything – a product, a service, your expertise – participation is mandatory.

From Salon • May 4, 2026

Weber instead supports policies aimed at expanding participation among eligible voters, including vote-by-mail ballots and automatic registration.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, said it "was an extraordinary day of world records, from the elite men and women running such extraordinary times, to the participation numbers, and now in fundraising".

From BBC • May 1, 2026

“I’d like to see more participation from you, Fern. You haven’t asked a single question since you’ve been here.”

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Related Words

• aid
• assistance
• attendance
• cooperation
• help
• presence
• sharing
• support