baptize
[ bap-tahyz, bap-tahyz ]
/ bæpˈtaɪz, ˈbæp taɪz /
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verb (used with object), bap·tized, bap·tiz·ing.
to immerse in water or sprinkle or pour water on in the Christian rite of baptism: They baptized the new baby.
to cleanse spiritually; initiate or dedicate by purifying.
to give a name to at baptism; christen.
verb (used without object), bap·tized, bap·tiz·ing.
to administer baptism.
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Also especially British, bap·tise .
Origin of baptize
1250–1300; Middle English <Late Latin baptizāre<Greek baptízein to immerse (bápt(ein) to bathe + -izein-ize)
OTHER WORDS FROM baptize
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use baptize in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for baptize
baptize
baptise
/ (bæpˈtaɪz) /
verb
Christianity to immerse (a person) in water or sprinkle water on (a person) as part of the rite of baptism
(tr) to give a name to; christen
(tr) to cleanse; purify
Word Origin for baptize
C13: from Late Latin baptīzāre, from Greek baptizein, from baptein to bathe, dip
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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