1. the act of starting a new operation or practice (Freq. 1) - he opposed the inauguration of fluoridation - the startup of the new factory was delayed by strikes • Syn: startup • Derivationally related forms: start up (for: startup), inaugurate • Hypernyms: beginning, start, commencement 2. the ceremonial induction into a position - the new president obviously enjoyed his inauguration • Syn: inaugural • Derivationally related forms: inaugurate • Hypernyms: initiation, induction, installation • Part Meronyms: inaugural address, inaugural