1. a formal religious or ceremonial act or procedure
2. a traditional or customary practice marking an important transition or event

Examples

• The baptism rite was performed at dawn.
• Ancient burial rites honored the deceased.
• The graduation ceremony included traditional rites of passage.
• Marriage rites vary across different cultures.
• The priest conducted the sacred rites with reverence.
• Coming-of-age rites mark the transition to adulthood.
• The funeral rites lasted three days.