inception

noun

in·​cep·​tion in-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce inception (audio)
: an act, process, or instance of beginning : commencement
Choose the Right Synonym for inception

origin, source, inception, root mean the point at which something begins its course or existence.

origin applies to the things or persons from which something is ultimately derived and often to the causes operating before the thing itself comes into being.

an investigation into the origin of baseball

source applies more often to the point where something springs into being.

the source of the Nile
the source of recurrent trouble

inception stresses the beginning of something without implying causes.

the business has been a success since its inception

root suggests a first, ultimate, or fundamental source often not easily discerned.

the real root of the violence

Examples of inception in a Sentence

The project has been shrouded in controversy from its inception. Since its inception, the business has expanded to become a national retail chain. We'll assist you at every stage from inception to completion.
Recent Examples on the Web Since its inception, Space Force has struggled to establish itself as a real military branch, but has repeatedly been perceived as a joke. Passant Rabie / Gizmodo, Quartz, 18 Mar. 2024 Almost since its inception, concerns have been raised about the addictive nature of the app, especially for young audiences whose minds are still developing. Leah Willingham, Fortune, 16 Mar. 2024 There’s the date of inspiration or inception, and then there’s the date of recording that could be decades apart. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 14 Mar. 2024 Since Formula 1’s inception in 1950, with only six events in Europe (and the Indy 500 thrown in for good measure), the series has grown into a global spectacle, covering every continent except Africa and Antarctica. Brad Spurgeon, Robb Report, 11 Mar. 2024 From its inception as a summer concert series in neighborhood churches in 2001, Classical Roots has grown into a vibrant spring celebration of the African American musical experience and has become a beloved Cincinnati tradition. The Enquirer, 5 Mar. 2024 That marks the most through the first two races since the inception of this statistic in 2005, surpassing the previous record of 277 green flag passes for the lead through the first two races set last season. Shane Connuck, Charlotte Observer, 2 Mar. 2024 Since its inception four years ago, the Space Force has left many puzzled about its present and future roles, particularly with the increasing autonomy of satellite networks and the increasing privatization of the launch industry. Charles Beames, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2024 Since its inception, Rap Snacks has made more than $50 million in revenue, according to company representatives. Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 7 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inception.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English incepcion, from Latin inception-, inceptio, from incipere to begin, from in- + capere to take

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inception was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near inception

Cite this Entry

“Inception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inception. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

inception

noun
in·​cep·​tion in-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce inception (audio)
: an act or instance of beginning

More from Merriam-Webster on inception

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