GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Rite (?), n. [L. ritus; cf. Skr. rīti a stream, a running, way, manner, ri to flow: cf. F. rit, rite. CF. Rivulet.] The act of performing divine or solemn service, as established by law, precept, or custom; a formal act of religion or other solemn duty; a solemn observance; a ceremony; as, “the rites of freemasonry”.
   
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   He looked with indifference on rites, names, and forms of ecclesiastical polity. Macaulay.
   
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   Syn. -- Form; ceremony; observance; ordinance.
   
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