noun
Uncommon
liturgy
LIT-uh-jee
Liturgy (noun) means a set of prescribed rituals performed in worship, or the book in which they are written down. Example: “The liturgy has changed little over the centuries.”
noun
1
A set of prescribed rituals performed in worship, or the book in which they are written down.
"The liturgy has changed little over the centuries."
"He knew the words of the liturgy by heart."
"The church published a revised liturgy for the season."
2
An official worship service of the Christian church.
"The liturgy begins at ten on Sunday morning."
"Visitors are welcome to attend the liturgy."
"The choir sang throughout the liturgy."
How to use liturgy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLiturgy is the set form of words and actions used in a religious service.
When to use it
It is a formal, religious term.
Memory tip
You can use it either for the ritual itself or for the book that contains it.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
Anglican liturgy
the liturgy of the Eucharist
Sunday liturgy
attend the liturgy
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The _____ has changed little over the centuries.
Etymology
English took the word from Middle French, which took it from Latin. The Latin came from an Ancient Greek word built from parts meaning 'people' and 'work'.
Synonyms
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Eucharist
Rhymes for liturgy
See all rhymes for liturgy →Frequently asked questions
What does liturgy mean?
It means a set of prescribed rituals used in worship, or a Christian worship service. It can also mean the book recording those rituals.
Where does the word liturgy come from?
It comes via Middle French and Latin from Ancient Greek. The Greek word combined 'people' with 'work'.
Is liturgy countable?
Yes, it can be both countable and uncountable. The plural is liturgies.
What is the meaning of liturgy?
"liturgy" (noun) means a set of prescribed rituals performed in worship, or the book in which they are written down.
