Baptize

/ˈbæp.taɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To perform the Christian sacrament of baptism, which involves the sprinkling or pouring of water on a person's head or immersing them in water as a sign of purification, admission into the Christian Church, or renewal of faith.

The priest will baptize the baby during the service next Sunday.

To name or dedicate someone or something, often with a significant or symbolic name.

They decided to baptize their new puppy Max after his favorite cartoon character.

To initiate or introduce someone into an activity or group, often through a challenging experience.

He felt that his first day on the job really baptized him into the realities of working in the fast-paced environment.

Etymology

From Middle English 'baptizen,' from Old French 'batizer,' from Latin 'baptizare,' from Greek 'baptizein' meaning 'to immerse, to dip.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

baptism by fire

A difficult or challenging test that someone must undergo.

to be baptized into something

To be initiated into a group or activity, often with a challenging experience.

Related Words

baptism

The Christian sacrament of initiation and adoption, usually with the use of water.

baptist

A member of a Protestant denomination advocating baptism only of adult believers by total immersion.

Slang Meanings

To catch someone off guard or unprepared, similar to a surprise initiation.

It's like they baptized him into the project without any warning.

To experience a sudden and intense introduction to something.

When she started her new job, it felt like they baptized her in the busy atmosphere of the office.