Sacrifice

/ˈsækrɪfaɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.

He made a sacrifice of his own comfort to help others in need.

An offering made to a deity as a part of religious worship.

The ancient civilization practiced animal sacrifice as a means to appease their gods.

verb

To give up something valued for the sake of other considerations.

She had to sacrifice her evening plans to finish the project.

To kill or slaughter an animal or person as an offering to a deity.

The tribe would sacrifice a goat during the festival to honor their traditions.

Late Middle English: from Old French 'sacrifice', from Latin 'sacrificium', from 'sacer' meaning 'sacred' + 'facere' meaning 'to do'.

make a sacrifice

To give up something important for a greater good.

sacrifice for the team

To put the collective interests ahead of personal ones.

sacrifice oneself

To give up one's life or well-being for others.

selflessness

The quality of putting others' needs before one's own.

offering

Something presented to a deity or as a gift.

atonement

Reparation for a wrong or injury.

To sacrifice in a video game context means to give up a character or item with the intention of gaining something more valuable.

I had to sacrifice my best character to save the mission.

In street culture, 'sacrificing' can mean taking a bold risk for a potential reward.

He sacrificed his safety to stand up for his friend.