What is the proper name of a Doctorate or PhD formal graduation?

There isn't one single universally accepted formal name for a doctorate or PhD graduation ceremony. The name varies depending on the institution and sometimes even the specific college or department within the university. Common terms include:

* Commencement: This is a very general term used for graduation ceremonies at all levels, including doctorates.

* Convocation: Similar to commencement, this is a broader term often used for university-wide ceremonies.

* Hooding Ceremony: This specifically refers to the part of the ceremony where the doctoral candidate receives their hood, a significant symbol of their degree. This might be a separate event within a larger commencement or convocation.

* Doctoral Hooding: A more specific term for the hooding ceremony itself.

* Dissertation Defense: While not a graduation ceremony *itself*, the successful defense of the dissertation is a crucial prerequisite to graduation and is sometimes considered a significant milestone event.

Therefore, the "proper" name is context-dependent. The best way to know the official name is to check the specific university's or department's website regarding their graduation ceremonies.