1. formal religious or ceremonial acts performed according to prescribed order
Usage: plural of rite
2. customary practices or procedures marking important occasions or transitions
Usage: often used in phrases like ‘rites of passage’

Examples

• The wedding rites were performed by the village elder.
• Ancient burial rites varied greatly between cultures.
• Graduation ceremonies are modern rites of passage.
• The priest conducted the sacred rites at dawn.
• Many societies have rites to mark the transition to adulthood.
• The funeral rites lasted three days.
• Religious rites often involve symbolic actions and prayers.