inaugurate

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to open, begin, or introduce something formally or ceremonially

   The mayor will inaugurate the new public library on Friday.

2. 2
   verb

   to mark or bring about the beginning of a new period, practice, or movement

   The discovery helped inaugurate a new era in molecular biology.

3. 3
   verb

   to install someone formally in an office

   The country will inaugurate its new president in January.

Borrowed through French inaugurer or directly from Latin inaugurare ("to take omens; consecrate or install"). The Latin verb is built on augur, a religious official who interpreted omens. A ceremonial installation broadened to any formal opening or important beginning.

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