Baptize

Alternative forms

• baptise

Origin

From Old French baptiser, batisier, from Ecclesiastical Latin baptizare, from Ancient Greek βαπτίζω ("to immerse, plunge, baptize").

Full definition of baptize

Verb

1. To sprinkle or pour water over, or to immerse in water, as a spiritual cleansing process in the rite of Christian baptism.
2. To dedicate or christen.
3. (1811) Of rum, brandy, or any other spirits, to dilute with water.
4. (slang) To ensure proper burning of a joint by moistening the exterior with saliva.

Synonyms

• christen

Derived terms

• baptization