traditional

adjective

tra·​di·​tion·​al trə-ˈdi-sh(ə-)nəl 

1

: of or relating to tradition : consisting of or derived from tradition

a traditional celebration

2

: handed down from age to age

traditional history

traditional songs/stories

3

: following or conforming to tradition : adhering to past practices or established conventions

traditional morality

traditional values/beliefs

employing traditional methods of cooking

traditionally adverb

a dish traditionally made with egg yolks, cream, and sugar

a seating area traditionally reserved for the church's leaders

Synonyms

• classical
• conventional
• customary
• prescriptive

Examples of traditional in a Sentence

a traditional Passover meal at his grandparents' house

a family that is very traditional when it comes to institutions like marriage

Recent Examples on the Web

In your opinion, what are some traditional drinks in the Filipino community? —Noel Burgess, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024

This is evident in its dance troupes, which incorporate traditional elements into their costumes. —Arath Zumaya Muñoz, Vogue, 2 Nov. 2024

The festival highlights traditional dances and musical performances, and, of course, altars. —Christian Orozco, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2024

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, a Republican, asserted in 1995 that traditional Medicare would fade away if its beneficiaries could pick between the original program and private plans. —Stephanie Armour | Kff Health News, ABC News, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing traditional

• anti-traditional
• go/take the traditional route

Kids Definition

traditional

adjective

tra·​di·​tion·​al

trə-ˈdish-nəl,

-ən-ᵊl

1

: handed down from age to age without writing

2

: based on custom

our traditional Thanksgiving dinner

traditionally

-ē

adverb