Emily Dickinson Lexicon

RITE, n. [Fr. rit, rite; L. ritus; It. and Sp. rito; Sans. riti, service.]

The manner of performing divine or solemn service as established by law, precept or custom; formal act of religion, or other solemn duty. The rites of the Israelites were numerous and expensive; the rites of modern churches are more simple. Funeral rites are very different in different countries. The sacrament is a holy rite. – Hammond.