Meaning & Definition of word "Baptism"
Baptism
/ˈbæptɪzəm/
noun:
- 1. A Christian sacrament marked by ritual use of water and admitting the recipients to the Christian community.
- Example: The child’s baptism was held at the local church last Sunday.
- 2. The act of initiating someone into a particular activity or culture.
- Example: His first experience of skydiving was a baptism of fire that hooked him on the sport.
- 3. A ceremony of initiation in various religious traditions.
- Example: The baptism of the new members into the congregation was a joyous event.
Etymology
●From Greek 'baptisma', meaning 'dipping' or 'immersion'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
baptism by fire:
A challenging or difficult introduction to a new situation.
baptism of fire:
An initial experience of undergoing a trial or challenge.
Related Words
christen:
To give a name to in a ceremony, often in conjunction with baptism.
sacrament:
A religious ceremony or act that is regarded as an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual divine grace.
Slang Meanings of baptism
Meaning: Jumping into something new.
● Example Sentence: He just got a new job, and it's his baptism into the corporate world.
Meaning: Going through a tough initiation.
● Example Sentence: The first week of training was a real baptism for the recruits.