Baptism Meaning Definition Examples Synonyms

Baptism

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A religious ceremony in which a person is purified or initiated, often involving water.
2. A Christian sacrament signifying spiritual cleansing and rebirth.
3. A symbolic act of initiation into a new way of life or belief.
4. A challenging or intense experience that serves as an introduction to something.

History and Origin

The word “baptism” comes from the Greek baptizein, meaning “to dip” or “to immerse.” It was used in ancient religious practices, including Jewish purification rites. In Christianity, baptism became a key sacrament symbolizing faith, repentance, and rebirth. The practice dates back to the time of John the Baptist, who baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. Over time, baptism has taken various forms, including full immersion, pouring, and sprinkling of water.

Detailed Explanation

Baptism is primarily associated with Christianity, where it represents purification, acceptance into the faith, and spiritual rebirth. It is often performed with water, which symbolizes cleansing from sin. In different Christian denominations, the method and significance of baptism may vary—some emphasize full immersion, while others use sprinkling or pouring. Beyond religious contexts, “baptism” can also refer to any intense or defining experience that marks a new beginning, such as “baptism by fire,” meaning a difficult initiation into something.

Example Sentences

1. The priest performed the baptism in the church with holy water.
2. Many Christian families baptize their children as an act of faith.
3. John’s baptism in the river symbolized his commitment to a new life.
4. The soldier’s first battle was his baptism by fire.
5. The ancient practice of baptism existed even before Christianity.
6. She viewed her first public speech as a baptism into the world of politics.
7. The church offers both infant and adult baptism ceremonies.
8. His baptism into the company involved handling a major crisis on his first day.
9. The tradition of baptism is considered sacred in many religious communities.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Christening – A religious ceremony, often involving baptism, to name a child.
2. Initiation – The process of being formally accepted into a group or practice.
3. Purification – A cleansing process, often spiritual or symbolic.
4. Dedication – A formal commitment to a religious or personal cause.
5. Consecration – The act of making something sacred or devoted to a higher purpose.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Sacrament – A religious ritual or ceremony with spiritual significance.
2. Rebirth – A transformation or new beginning, often spiritual.
3. Anointment – The act of applying oil for a sacred purpose.
4. Ritual – A prescribed religious or ceremonial act.
5. Immersion – Being completely submerged in water, often in religious practices.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Blessing – A religious act of bestowing favor or grace.
2. Sprinkling – A method of baptism involving drops of water on the forehead.
3. Conversion – The process of adopting a new faith or belief.
4. Cleansing – The act of removing impurities, spiritually or physically.
5. Vow – A solemn promise, often made during religious ceremonies.

Antonyms

1. Damnation
2. Condemnation
3. Defilement
4. Exclusion
5. Profanation