verb
baptize
BAP-tyz
Baptize (verb) means to perform the Christian rite of baptism on someone, using water to admit them into the church. Example: “The priest baptized the newborn in front of the whole family.”
verb
1
To perform the Christian rite of baptism on someone, using water to admit them into the church.
"The priest baptized the newborn in front of the whole family."
"He chose to be baptized in the river where he'd grown up swimming."
2
Figuratively, to formally name, initiate, or introduce someone or something for the first time.
"The ship was baptized with a bottle of champagne before its maiden voyage."
How to use baptize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo carry out the Christian ritual of baptism on someone; more loosely, to formally christen or initiate something.
UK vs US
Also spelled "baptise" in British English.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like baptize.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- baptizes
- Past tense
- baptized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The priest _____ the newborn in front of the whole family.
Etymology
From Old French baptiser, from Late Latin baptizāre, from Greek baptizein ("to dip, immerse").
Related words
Rhymes for baptize
See all rhymes for baptize →Frequently asked questions
What does “baptize” mean?
The word “baptize” means to perform the Christian rite of baptism on someone, using water to admit them into the church. In plain terms, to carry out the Christian ritual of baptism on someone; more loosely, to formally christen or initiate something.
How do you pronounce “baptize”?
“Baptize” is pronounced BAP-tyz ([ˈbæp.tajz] in IPA).
How do you use “baptize” in a sentence?
Here is “baptize” used in a sentence: “The priest baptized the newborn in front of the whole family.”
What part of speech is “baptize”?
“Baptize” is a verb.
Where does the word “baptize” come from?
The word “baptize” comes from Late Latin. From Old French baptiser, from Late Latin baptizāre, from Greek baptizein ("to dip, immerse").
How many meanings does “baptize” have?
“Baptize” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to perform the Christian rite of baptism on someone, using water to admit them into the church.
