baptises
|bap-tize-ses|
/bæpˈtaɪz/
(baptise)
to dip/immerse to initiate (perform baptism)
Etymology
'baptise' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'baptizein' (βαπτίζειν), where the root 'bapto-' meant 'to dip' or 'to immerse'.
'baptizein' passed into Late Latin as 'baptizare' and into Old French as 'baptiser', and eventually became the modern English word 'baptise' via Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to dip or immerse'; over time it evolved into the current sense 'to administer the Christian sacrament of baptism' (and by extension 'to give a name, to consecrate').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
third-person singular present tense form of 'baptise' (to perform baptism or to give a name in a religious ceremony).
He baptises infants in the parish church.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/13 07:18