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Definitions

observance

[uhb-zur-vuhns] / əbˈzɜr vəns /
NOUN
attention to, knowledge of something
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acknowledgment adherence celebration compliance fulfillment
STRONG
acquittal acquittance awareness cognizance discharge fidelity heed honoring keeping mark mind note notice obedience observation performance regard remark satisfaction
WEAK
carrying-out heeding
Antonyms
STRONG
disregard heedlessness ignorance inattention indifference neglect thoughtlessness
WEAK
carelessness unorthodoxy
NOUN
ceremony, rite
Synonyms
STRONGEST
celebration liturgy ritual tradition
STRONG
ceremonial custom fashion form formality performance practice rule service
Antonyms
WEAK
carelessness heedlessness neglect thoughtlessness unorthodoxy

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.

Equity markets are closed tomorrow in observance of Good Friday.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

The two major U.S. stock exchanges — the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq — will be closed on Friday, April 3, in observance of the Christian holiday.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

I wish the Christian observance of Lent had the communal dimension Ramadan has, with the breaking of the Muslim fast almost always done together at the mosque, at home or in restaurants.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Equity and fixed-income markets are closed in observance of Presidents Day.

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

This was an observance the authorities considered mandatory.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela