occasion

oc-ca-sion · noun/verb

imported

Definitions

noun/verb

  1. 1.

    A particular time or instance of an event.

  2. 2.

    To cause or bring about.

  3. 3.

    A special or noteworthy event or ceremony.

  4. 4.

    A suitable time or opportunity.

  5. 5.

    Reason or cause.

Forms

plural: occasions

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on occasion — sometimes; from time to time
  • •
    rise to the occasion — to respond successfully to a challenge
  • •
    special occasion — an important event or celebration

Related words

See also: ceremony, event, opportunity
Synonyms: cause, event, opportunity, time

Etymology

From Old French occasion, from Latin occasio ("opportunity, fit time"), from occidere ("to fall, set"), from ob- ("down") + cadere ("to fall").