institutions

10 definitions • 12 examples

a large and important organization, such as a university or bank:

a medical/educational/financial institution

Harvard University is an internationally respected institution.

a building where people are sent to be cared for, especially a hospital or prison

a custom or tradition that has existed for a long time and is accepted as an important part of a particular society:

the venerable institution of marriage

figurative Mrs Daly is an institution - she's been with the company for 40 years and knows absolutely everyone.

an occasion when a law, system, etc. begins or is introduced:

The institution of the Freedom of Information Act has had a significant effect.

an organization that exists to serve a public purpose such as education or support for people who need help:

a charitable/educational/scientific institution

An institution of higher learning is a college or university.

a custom or practice that has existed for a long time and is accepted as an important part of a society:

the institution of marriage

a large and important organization, such as a bank:

Traders said a certain institution had been trying to sell a lot of shares.

Various City institutions were involved in the deal.

Many government institutions will be affected by the spending cuts.

a custom or tradition that has existed for a long time and is accepted as an important part of a particular society:

the institution of marriage

the introduction of a law, system, etc.:

Many are now calling for the institution of a quota system in Parliament and other political bodies to ensure equality.