When a new building or institution is inaugurated, it is declared open in a formal ceremony. A new centre for research on toxic waste was inaugurated today at Imperial College. = open + inauguration in·augu·ra·tion They later attended the inauguration of the University
To introduce or induct into an office with suitable ceremonies or solemnities; to invest with power or authority in a formal manner; to install; as, to inaugurate a president; to inaugurate a king
with formality or solemn ceremony; hence, to set in motion, action, or progress; to initiate; used especially of something of dignity or worth or public concern; as, to inaugurate a new era of things, new methods, etc