The first existence of anything; act or fact of commencing; the beginning.
The day when degrees are conferred by colleges and universities upon students and others.
A graduation ceremony, from a school, college or university.
The beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book.
An introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.
A title or epithet.
The prelude or introduction to the canon of the Mass.
To give a preface to.
To introduce or make a comment before (the main point).