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

White evangelical Protestants, along with other conservative white Christians, were the principal actors who baptized, defended, rehabilitated and sustained Trump’s candidacy.

From Salon

The story begins with two young Mormon women on a mission to baptize converts.

From Los Angeles Times

Three days before he was killed, Isaiah told her he wanted to get baptized so he could be a “new man,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

Many locals recall that he baptized their children or confirmed their grandchildren.

From Seattle Times

She was baptized into the Roman Catholic Church, from which she imbibed the lesson that a large religious institution could have ugliness in its past, but still do good in individual lives.

From New York Times

Related Words

• immerse