DictionaryaccessionTaking office
noun

accession

Attainment of an office, throne, or rank.

The new ruler's accession begins a period of political uncertainty.

Etymology

Latin accessio expressed approaching or being added. In this use, the approach is to a position of authority: accession names the act of entering the office or rank.

More examples

  • The museum marks the queen's accession with an exhibition.
  • His accession to office surprised the opposition.
  • The historian compares two disputed royal accessions.

Forms

accession · accessions

Similar words

succession
Emphasizes following or replacing a previous officeholder.
coronation
The crowning ceremony, which may occur after accession.