liturgy

[ lit-er-jee ]

noun

, plural lit·ur·gies.

1. a form of public worship; ritual.
2. a collection of formularies for public worship.
3. a particular arrangement of services.
4. a particular form or type of the Eucharistic service.
5. the service of the Eucharist, especially this service Divine Liturgy in the Eastern Church.

liturgy

/ ˈlɪtədʒɪ /

noun

1. the forms of public services officially prescribed by a Church
2. Also calledDivine Liturgy often capital Eastern Churches the Eucharistic celebration
3. a particular order or form of public service laid down by a Church

Other Words From

• anti·litur·gy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of liturgy¹

1550–60; < Late Latin lītūrgia < Greek leitourgía public service, ecclesiastical Greek: Eucharist, equivalent to leitourg ( ós ) minister + -ia -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of liturgy¹

C16: via Medieval Latin, from Greek leitourgia, from leitourgos minister, from leit- people + ergon work

Example Sentences

According to her website, she graduated from Union Theological Seminary in New York City where she developed her passion for liturgy.

From Washington Blade

“Dave generously shared his time, resources and spiritual gifts for nearly twenty years, joining in community liturgies, socials, and retreats,” Edwards’ write-up says about Pichette’s involvement with the Dignity groups and Communitas.

From Washington Blade

The name "Common Prayer," which was given to the new Liturgy, marked its real import.

From Project Gutenberg

It was his voice that men heard and still hear in the accents of the English Liturgy.

From Project Gutenberg

The royal supremacy was re-established: the Mass abolished: the English Liturgy restored.

From Project Gutenberg

The enforced union in Prussia was combined with the publication of a new liturgy intended for common use.

From Project Gutenberg

But one verse was sung; then followed a short prayer from the church liturgy, after which the lesson began.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• observance
• rite
• ritual
• Sacrament