Institution

Definition

Institution is a noun that refers to an established organization, society, or foundation created for a specific purpose, such as education, religion, or public service. It can also refer to a custom, practice, or system that has become an accepted part of a society or culture.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnstɪˈtuːʃən/
• Respelling: in-sti-TOO-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃən/
• Respelling: in-sti-TYOO-shuhn

Etymology

The word "institution" originates from the Latin "institutio," meaning "arrangement" or "instruction," derived from "instituere," which means "to establish or arrange." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, primarily referring to customs and practices.

Derivatives

• Institutional (adjective)
• Institutionalize (verb)
• Institutionalization (noun)
• Institutionalism (noun)
• Reinstitution (noun)

Synonyms

• Organization
• Establishment
• Foundation

Antonyms

• Disorganization
• Abolition
• Dissolution

Usage

The noun "institution" is widely used to describe formal organizations or societal structures. For example, "The university is a respected educational institution." It is also used to refer to enduring systems or traditions, e.g., "Marriage is a social institution."

Related Terms

• Organization: A group or structure arranged to achieve specific goals.
• Foundation: An underlying basis or principle for an institution or idea.
• Society: A structured community of individuals with shared customs and institutions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An established organization or foundation: Refers to entities created for public, educational, or charitable purposes.
  • Example: "The hospital is one of the oldest medical institutions in the country."
• A significant practice, system, or relationship in society: Refers to customs or traditions ingrained in cultural or social systems.
  • Example: "Democracy is a core political institution in many nations."
• An established law or custom: Refers to practices that are legally or traditionally recognized.
  • Example: "The institution of slavery was abolished in the 19th century."