christening

American  

[kris-uh-ning, kris-ning] / ˈkrɪs ə nɪŋ, ˈkrɪs nɪŋ /

noun

1. the ceremony of baptism, especially as accompanied by the giving of a name to a child.

2. a public ceremony in which a new ship is formally named and launched.

3. an act or instance of naming or dedicating something new.

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ˈchristening British  

/ ˈkrɪsənɪŋ /

noun

1. the Christian sacrament of baptism or the ceremony in which this is conferred

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Etymology

Origin of christening

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; christen, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Dr Gillespie said issues with availability can mean they are often called into highly emotional situations at short notice, sometimes moving between a christening and a life-or-death situation in hospital.

From BBC

Of course, race has played an equally important role in Davis’ work as gender, if christening herself after the activist Angela Davis when she was a teenager wasn’t enough of a clue.

From Los Angeles Times

Known for her iconic one liners, Doris is well quoted by fans of the series - particularly when she refused to make the salad for Neil the Baby's christening.

From BBC

Before long he was entertaining our daughters by taking them to ship christenings.

From Literature

They took custody just after the baby was born, christening the little girl Sarah Frances Newby.

From Salon