sacrament

English

/ˈsækɹəmənt/

noun
Definitions
  • (Christianity) A sacred act or ceremony in Christianity. In Catholic theology, a sacrament is defined as "an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace."
  • (in particular) The Eucharist.
  • The consecrated Eucharist (especially the bread).
  • A thing which is regarded as possessing a sacred character or mysterious significance.
  • The oath of allegiance taken by soldiers in Ancient Rome; hence, any sacred ceremony used to impress an obligation; a solemn oath-taking; an oath.

Etymology

Borrowed from Old French sacrement derived from Latin sacrāmentum, sacrō (consecrate, hallow, make sacred).

Origin

Latin

sacrō

Gloss

consecrate, hallow, make sacred

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms