invitation

noun

in-vi-TAY-shuhn/ɪn.vɪˈteɪ.ʃən/

6 meanings of invitation

1
nouncountable
A written or spoken message that asks someone to come to an event.
Like a card that tells you where and when to show up.
She sent out fifty invitations for her birthday party.
The invitation said the wedding starts at noon.
Similarcard
2
nouncountable or uncountable
The act of asking someone to come somewhere or join something.
Like opening a door so someone knows they can come in.
The invitation came too late for us to make plans.
Her invitation to dinner made him feel welcome.
Similarrequest, offer, call
Note
3
nounusually singular
Something that tempts or draws you toward doing something.
Like a plate of cookies left out: it tempts you to take one.
Leaving the door unlocked was an invitation to thieves.
Her warm smile felt like an invitation to come closer.
Similartemptation, enticement, inducement, encouragement, lure
Oppositedeterrent, discouragement, disincentive
4
nouncountable
In fighting sports, an opening left on purpose to tempt your opponent into attacking.
Like leaving a door open on purpose so someone walks into a trap.
The fencer gave an invitation, hoping her rival would lunge.
He spotted the invitation and chose not to attack.
Similaropening
Note
5
nouncountable
In the card game bridge, a bid that tells your partner you might win big if their cards are strong.
Like asking 'should we keep going?' and letting your teammate decide.
She made an invitation, leaving the final choice to her partner.
His invitation suggested they could reach game with strong enough cards.
Note
6
nouncountable
In Anglican church services, a short call that leads people into confessing their sins.
Like a signal that tells everyone it's time to begin the next part.
The priest read the invitation before the congregation knelt to confess.
After the invitation, the whole parish recited the confession together.
Note

Practice

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Origin

From Latin invītātio, which came into Middle English (also helped by Middle French invitation).