baptism
UK: ˈbæp.tɪ.zəm | US: ˈbæp.tɪ.zəm
n. a Christian sacrament involving immersion in or sprinkling with water as a sign of spiritual purification and rebirth
n. (figuratively) an initiation or transformative experience
The word baptism traces back to the Greek baptizein, reflecting the ritual of immersion in water for spiritual purification. Early Christian practices adopted this term to symbolize rebirth, and the suffix -ism formalized it as a doctrinal concept. The evolution highlights the physical act (dipping) merging with theological meaning (spiritual renewal).
The priest performed the baptism by gently pouring water over the baby’s head.
Her first day at the job felt like a baptism by fire.
In many cultures, baptism signifies entry into the faith community.
The river was used for public baptisms in the early church.
He described his military training as a baptism into discipline.