baptize
UK: bapˈtaɪz | US: bæpˈtaɪz
vt. to immerse in water or sprinkle with water as a religious rite of purification or initiation
vt. to cleanse or purify spiritually
vt. to give a name to someone during a baptism ceremony
The word "baptize" originates from the Greek baptein, meaning "to dip" or "immerse," reflecting the ritual act of cleansing through water. The suffix -ize (from Greek -izein) converts the root into a verb, emphasizing the action of performing the rite. Early Christian adoption of the term preserved its literal and symbolic meanings, linking physical immersion with spiritual purification. Over time, "baptize" expanded to include naming ceremonies, reinforcing its role in religious identity.
The priest will baptize the newborn during Sunday’s service.
Many cultures baptize initiates by fully immersing them in water.
She felt spiritually renewed after deciding to baptize herself in the river.
The church uses a special font to baptize infants.
In some traditions, it is customary to baptize converts publicly.