inception

noun

in·​cep·​tion in-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce inception (audio)
: an act, process, or instance of beginning : commencement
Choose the Right Synonym for inception

origin, source, inception, root mean the point at which something begins its course or existence.

origin applies to the things or persons from which something is ultimately derived and often to the causes operating before the thing itself comes into being.

an investigation into the origin of baseball

source applies more often to the point where something springs into being.

the source of the Nile
the source of recurrent trouble

inception stresses the beginning of something without implying causes.

the business has been a success since its inception

root suggests a first, ultimate, or fundamental source often not easily discerned.

the real root of the violence

Examples of inception in a Sentence

The project has been shrouded in controversy from its inception. Since its inception, the business has expanded to become a national retail chain. We'll assist you at every stage from inception to completion.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since its inception in 1994, New Faces has been regarded as a premier launchpad, helping to propel the careers of dozens of comedy’s biggest stars — among them, Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer, Ali Wong, Jo Koy, and Kumail Nanjiani. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 21 July 2025 Practically since its inception, the project has faced fierce opposition from local officials in the resort town, who cite concerns that beachgoers would lose a pristine ocean view if the turbines were visible from shore. Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 20 July 2025 Since its inception, the compensation fund has paid about $4.8 billion in awards for harm from serious side effects, such as life-threatening allergic reactions and Guillain-Barré syndrome, an autoimmune condition that can cause paralysis. Patricia Callahan, CNN Money, 18 July 2025 However, for those seeking upside with a less volatile option than an individual stock, consider the High Quality portfolio, which has outperformed the S&P, achieving over 91% returns since its inception. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for inception

Word History

Etymology

Middle English incepcion, from Latin inception-, inceptio, from incipere to begin, from in- + capere to take

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inception was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inception. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

inception

noun
in·​cep·​tion in-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce inception (audio)
: an act or instance of beginning

More from Merriam-Webster on inception

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