baptize

To baptize is to initiate or bring someone into a group. This word is often associated with the religious practice of baptizing a baby or baptizing a person who converts to a new religion. Baptismal rites almost always involve the use of water on the forehead or a person’s body is fully submerged in water.

• A priest baptizes a baby.
• Babies are baptized by priests.
• Adults are baptized when they convert.
• A majority of Christian religions baptize children and adults.

The word "baptism" is a noun.

• A baptism is performed by a priest.
• We have to attend a baptism for our nephew.
• It’s believed by some religious scholars that John the Baptist performed a baptism for Jesus.

Sometimes the word "baptism" is used figuratively when a person undergoes an experience that is difficult or transformative.

• Soldiers learn real-life military skills in combat. This is a baptism of fire.
• Don’s five months as an intern at that company served as a baptism by fire.

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December 2, 2015