baptize

[ bap-tahyz, bap-tahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, bap·tized, bap·tiz·ing.

1. to immerse in water or sprinkle or pour water on in the Christian rite of baptism:

   They baptized the new baby.

2. to cleanse spiritually; initiate or dedicate by purifying.
3. to give a name to at baptism; christen.

verb (used without object)

, bap·tized, bap·tiz·ing.

1. to administer baptism.

baptize

/ bæpˈtaɪz /

verb

1. Christianity to immerse (a person) in water or sprinkle water on (a person) as part of the rite of baptism
2. tr to give a name to; christen
3. tr to cleanse; purify

Other Words From

• bap·tiza·ble adjective
• bap·tizement noun
• bap·tizer noun
• re·baptize verb rebaptized rebaptizing
• self-baptiz·er noun
• un·baptized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of baptize¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from Late Latin baptizāre, from Greek baptízein “to immerse,” from bápt(ein) “to dip” + -izein -ize

Word History and Origins

Origin of baptize¹

C13: from Late Latin baptīzāre , from Greek baptizein , from baptein to bathe, dip

Example Sentences

She wrote to the pope to express her fear that no priest would baptize her illegitimate baby.

From The Daily Beast

This was why we resolved, at the time of our arrival, not to baptize any adults unless they were previously well catechized.

From Project Gutenberg

Father Biard went to the afflicted parent of the boy, and asked whether he might, with his consent, baptize the dying child.

From Project Gutenberg

"I baptize thee," broke the silence, time after time, amid the tiny splashes of falling water.

From Project Gutenberg

A well-known politician, who died only recently, was born in the village, and the old rector was called on to baptize him.

From Project Gutenberg

But it was not thought safe to baptize him in Galicia, so he was sent to Bellson, in Berlin, who baptized him in 1846.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• immerse