observance

ob·ser·vance

noun \əb-ˈzər-vən(t)s\

Definition of OBSERVANCE

1

a : a customary practice, rite, or ceremony <Sabbath observances> b : a rule governing members of a religious order

2

: an act or instance of following a custom, rule, or law <observance of the speed limits>

3

: an act or instance of watching

Examples of OBSERVANCE

1. <the observance of this family tradition would make your grandmother very happy>
2. <observance of the smoking ban in public buildings>

First Known Use of OBSERVANCE

13th century

Related to OBSERVANCE

Synonyms: abidance, adherence, compliance, conformance, conformity, keeping, obedience, observation

Antonyms: breach, contravention, infraction, infringement, nonobservance, transgression, trespass, violation

Related Words: deference, honor, regard, respect, upholding; accession, acquiescence, submission, surrender; attendance, attention, heed, notice

Near Antonyms: brush-off, disregard, ignoring; delinquency, dereliction, forgetting, neglect, overlooking; offense (or offence), sin, wrong; challenge, defiance, flouting, rebellion

see all synonyms and antonyms

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