Commencement day (/kəˈmɛnsmənt deɪ/) is the day when graduates receive their diplomas and commence their new journey. The word "commencement" is spelled with a double "m" and "e" after "n" because it is derived from the Latin word "cominitiare." The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /kəˈmɛnsmənt/, with stress on the second syllable. Similarly, "day" is pronounced /deɪ/ with stress on the first syllable and is spelled with a single "y" because it is derived from the Old English word "dæg." Together, they form the phrase that marks a milestone in every student's life.
Commencement day refers to the day when an educational institution, particularly a college or university, holds a formal ceremony to mark the successful completion of academic degrees by its students. It is a momentous occasion, often celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, as it signifies the beginning of a new chapter in the graduates' lives.
During commencement day, students dress in traditional graduation regalia such as caps and gowns and gather along with their professors, families, and friends in a designated space, typically an auditorium or stadium. The ceremony usually features speeches by distinguished individuals, including faculty members, guest speakers, or even notable alumni. These speeches may offer inspirational messages, advice, or reflections on the graduates' accomplishments.
The highlight of a commencement day is the official awarding of the degrees, with each student called to the stage to receive their diploma. This moment represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and academic achievement.
Commencement day also often includes symbolic traditions, such as the throwing of graduation caps in the air by the graduates at the end of the ceremony, symbolizing the beginning of their new journey into the professional world or further educational pursuits.
Overall, commencement day marks the transition from student to graduate and serves as a significant milestone in the lives of those who have completed their academic studies, representing their achievements, growth, and the bright prospects that lie ahead for their future.
The word "commencement" originates from the Latin word "cominitiare", which means "to begin". "Cominitiare" is derived from the Latin word "com-" (meaning "together") and "initiare" (meaning "to begin"). The term "commencement" in English has been used since the 14th century to refer to the beginning or start of something.
The addition of "day" to form "commencement day" is a straightforward way to specify the particular day on which a commencement ceremony takes place. This phrase is commonly used to denote the day of the graduation ceremony for educational institutions, where students receive their diplomas and mark the beginning of their new phase in life.