What does baptize mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈbæptɪzaɪ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To perform a religious ceremony in which a person is sprinkled or submerged with water as a symbol of purification, regeneration, and admission to a particular faith or Christian community.

Examples

• The priest baptized the newborn baby in the church.
• The couple decided to baptize their child in a private ceremony.

Synonyms

• Christen
• Initiate

Antonyms

• Excommunicate
• Apostatize

Additional Information

Baptism is a significant religious ritual in many Christian denominations. The practice of baptism has its roots in ancient Jewish purification rituals and was later adopted by early Christians as a symbol of spiritual rebirth. Today, baptism is performed in various forms, including immersion, sprinkling, and pouring.

In some Christian traditions, baptism is seen as a necessary step for salvation, while in others, it is viewed as a symbolic act of faith. The meaning and significance of baptism vary widely across different Christian denominations and cultural contexts.

Etymology

The word “baptize” comes from the Greek verb “baptizein,” which means “to dip” or “to immerse.” This verb is derived from the Greek noun “baptisma,” meaning “immersion” or “baptism.”

Usage Notes

Baptism is often performed in a religious ceremony, and the term “baptize” is typically used in a religious context. However, the verb can also be used figuratively to describe a transformative or initiatory experience.

Cultural References

Baptism has been depicted in various works of art, literature, and film, including paintings by Renaissance masters, novels like “The Godfather,” and films like “The Baptism of Christ.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Baptism by fire
• Baptism of spirit

Related Words or Phrases

• Confirmation
• Communion

Collocations

• baptize in water
• receive baptism

Frequency of Use

The word “baptize” is moderately common in modern language, often used in religious and cultural contexts.

Common Misspellings

• baptiz
• baptise