Sacrament Meaning and Definition

Sacrament

Sacrament

Pronunciation

/ˈs æ krəmənt/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A sacred or spiritual act, rite, or ritual, considered essential to a Christian’s relationship with God, typically performed by an ordained priest or minister.

Etymology

From Latin sacramentum, from sacrum (‘holy’) and mentum (‘profession’), literally ‘a solemn oath or promise’.

Usage Notes

Sacraments are typically performed within a religious context, and their meaning and significance vary across different Christian denominations and traditions.

Cultural References

The term ‘sacrament’ has been used in various works of literature and art, including novels, poems, and films, often to convey themes of spirituality, sacrifice, and redemption.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

‘To take a sacrament’ means to partake in a sacred ritual or ceremony.

Related Words or Phrases

Relic, Icon, Votive, Benediction

Collocations

Sacrament of Baptism, Sacrament of the Eucharist, Sacrament of Confession

Frequency of Use

The term ‘sacrament’ is relatively rare in modern usage, but it remains an important concept in Christian theology and practice.

Common Misspellings

Sacriment, Sacramant, Sacramente

Related Words