noun

promotion

pruh-MOH-shun/prəˈməʊʃn/

Advancement in position or development.

The new insignia marks the firefighter's promotion as colleagues applaud.

Promotion to higher rank: senior fire officer pins a new rank insignia on a Black female firefighter's uniform while colleagues applaud.

Etymology

proLatinforward

+motLatinto move

+ionLatinact or process

Promotion presents advancement in rank as “moving forward.” The physical direction becomes a social one: someone is advanced to a higher office or position.

In context

BASEline4:13

E4 occurring after 30 months the automatic promotion from E3 to E4 is new

US Navy Ranks EXPLAINED 2025 - Seaman to Admiral

More examples

Two employees receive promotions at the annual meeting.
The foundation supports the promotion of science education.
The promotion of healthy habits begins at home.

Forms

promotion · promotions

promote verb — To help someone or something advance.

Similar words

advancement: Advancement can describe gradual progress, not just a formal step.
support: Support means providing help, without necessarily producing advancement.