observances
|ob-serv-ances|
🇺🇸
/əbˈzɝvəns/
🇬🇧
/əbˈzɜːvəns/
(observance)
adherence to customs
Etymology
'observance' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'observantia', where 'observare' meant 'to watch over' (from the prefix 'ob-' meaning 'toward' and the root 'servare' meaning 'to keep or guard').
'observantia' passed into Old French and Middle English as 'observance', eventually becoming the modern English word 'observance'.
Initially it meant 'the act of watching over or keeping (something)', but over time it broadened to include 'the performance of customary or ritual practices' and 'the act of complying with rules'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
customary or ceremonial practices, especially those of a religious or cultural nature (plural of 'observance').
The town's annual religious observances attract visitors from across the region.
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Noun 2
acts of observing or watching (the act of paying attention to or monitoring something).
Their observances of the patient's condition were noted every hour.
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Noun 3
the act of complying with or following a rule, law, custom, or practice.
Strict observances of the safety regulations are required on the site.
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Last updated: 2025/10/21 22:53