First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
reception
noun re·cep·tion \ri-ˈsep-shən\
: the kind of welcome that someone or something is given
: a social gathering to celebrate something or to welcome someone
: the act or process of receiving, welcoming, or accepting something or someone
Full Definition of RECEPTION
1
: the act or action or an instance of receiving: as a : receipt <the reception and distribution of funds> b : admission <reception into the church> c : response, reaction <the play met with a mixed reception> d : the receiving of a radio or television broadcast e : the catching of a forward pass by a receiver
2
: a social gathering often for the purpose of extending a formal welcome
See reception defined for English-language learners
See reception defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of RECEPTION
Middle English recepcion, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French reception, from Latin reception-, receptio, from recipere
Related to RECEPTION
Rhymes with RECEPTION
RECEPTION Defined for Kids
reception
noun re·cep·tion \ri-ˈsep-shən\
Definition of RECEPTION for Kids
1
: the act or manner of welcoming <We got a warm reception from our new neighbors.>
2
: a social gathering to celebrate something or welcome someone <a wedding reception>
3
: the ability to receive a radio or television broadcast
4
: the act of catching a pass thrown toward the opponent's goal
Learn More About RECEPTION
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: reception centerPrevious Word in the Dictionary: receptibleAll Words Near: reception
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up reception? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).