celebration

American

[sel-uh-brey-shuhn] / ˌsɛl əˈbreɪ ʃən /

noun

the act of celebrating.

We want to do something special in celebration of Amy’s great new job.
a party or other festive event for celebrating something.

Don’t you think the birthday celebrations for preschoolers in this neighborhood are a bit over the top?

Other Word Forms

intercelebration noun
noncelebration noun
precelebration noun
recelebration noun

Etymology

Origin of celebration

First recorded in 1480–90; from Latin celebrātiōn- (stem of celebrātiō ) “large gathering, widespread use, celebration (of a festival)”; celebrate, -ion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Waine is a Newcastle fan who replicated Alan Shearer's trademark arm-in-the-air celebration after scoring against Sunderland.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

"Because this city has always been a place where cultures come together, where music fills the air, and where celebration is part of everyday life," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

For one last run, Betts can be that for a community and team where she’s found not just acceptance, but true celebration.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

A larger celebration of life will be held at a later date.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

After all, this time is a celebration, like Pasta-paloozas are supposed to be.

From "A Bird Will Soar" by Alison Green Myers

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023