institution

1. A long-established organization or type of organization, particularly one involved with education, public service, or charity work. (countable, uncountable) · The University of the South Pacific is the only internationally accredited institution of higher education in Oceania.
2. A custom or practice of a society or community. (countable, uncountable) · The institution of marriage is present in many cultures but its details vary widely across them.
3. The building or buildings which house such an organization. (countable, uncountable) · He's been in an institution since the crash.
4. A mental institution. (countable, informal, uncountable)
5. Any facility where people (especially those who are mentally or physically disabled or sick, or who are prisoners) are committed (confined), where their freedom to leave is restricted. (countable, uncountable)
6. Any long established and respected place or business. (countable, informal, uncountable) · Over time, the local pub has become something of an institution.
7. A person long established in a place, position, or field. (countable, informal, uncountable) · She's not just any old scholar; she is an institution.
8. The act of instituting something. (countable, uncountable) · The institution of higher speed limits was a popular move but increased the severity of crashes.

Plural institutions