Convocation Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌkɑnvəˈkeɪʃən/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A formal gathering or assembly of people, often for a specific purpose or occasion, such as a university graduation ceremony, a church service, or a business meeting.

Examples

• The university held a convocation ceremony to honor its graduating class.
• The president attended a convocation of world leaders to discuss global issues.

Synonyms

• Gathering
• Assembly
• Meeting

Antonyms

• Dispersal
• Split

Etymology

The word “Convocation” comes from the Latin “convocatio”, meaning “a calling together” or “a summons”.

Additional Information

Convocations are often ceremonial in nature and are used to mark important occasions or milestones. They can be formal or informal, and may involve speeches, presentations, or other forms of address. In some contexts, a convocation may be a singular event, while in others it may be a recurring gathering.

In academia, a convocation is a formal ceremony that takes place at the beginning of a semester or academic year, where faculty and students gather to mark the new academic period. Convocations can also be held in religious contexts to bring together congregations for worship and reflection.

Usage Notes

Convocation is often used in formal or official contexts, and is typically used to describe a gathering of people with a specific purpose or occasion in mind.

Cultural References

In literature, the term “convocation” is often used to describe a gathering of characters or beings for a specific purpose or occasion. For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”, the Council of Elrond is a convocation of wise and powerful beings who gather to discuss the fate of Middle-earth.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

A call to convocation

Related Words or Phrases

• Gathering
• Assembly
• Meeting
• Ceremony

Collocations

• Convocation ceremony
• Convocation speech
• Convocation of leaders

Frequency of Use

Convocation is a relatively rare term, and is typically used in formal or official contexts. It may be more commonly used in academic or religious contexts, where formal gatherings are more common.