Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Institution has 6 different meanings across 1 category:
an organization founded and united for a specific purpose
"The new university was established as an institution dedicated to advancing medical research in rural areas."
an establishment consisting of a building or complex of buildings where an organization for the promotion of some cause is situated
"The local community center, which houses both a library and a youth mentorship program, serves as the primary institution for promoting literacy in our neighborhood."
a custom that for a long time has been an important feature of some group or society
"the institution of marriage"
"the institution of slavery"
"he had become an institution in the theater"
the act of starting something for the first time; introducing something new
"she looked forward to her initiation as an adult"
"the foundation of a new scientific society"
a hospital for mentally incompetent or unbalanced person
"The quiet town was shocked when they announced plans to build a new institution on the outskirts of the valley."
A custom or practice of a society or community.
"The family's tradition of gathering for three generations around every holiday has become such an institution in our village that no one dares skip it."
In plain English: An institution is an important organization, rule, or practice that society accepts as normal and necessary.
"The university is a respected institution in our community."
Usage: Use "institution" to refer to long-established customs, practices, or accepted norms within a society, such as marriage or democracy. Avoid using it for temporary habits or individual actions, which should instead be described as routines or behaviors.
The word "institution" comes from the Latin instituō, meaning "to set up," which combines the prefix in- with statuō ("to establish"). It entered English through Middle and Old French before becoming a noun describing an established organization or practice.