Crucifixion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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crucifixion
cru-ci-fix-ion
Definitions
Christianity
The act of executing a person by nailing or binding them to a cross, a form of capital punishment used by the Romans in ancient times.
Synonyms
cruciation, crucifying, execution.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| crucifixion |
Used to describe the specific method of execution by which someone is nailed or bound to a cross. Often associated with historical or religious contexts.
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| execution |
Refers broadly to the act of carrying out a death sentence, not limited to any specific method. Used in legal, historical, or crime-related contexts.
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| crucifying |
Generally used to describe the act of putting someone to death by nailing or binding them to a cross. Can also mean subjecting someone to severe criticism or extreme discomfort.
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| cruciation |
Rarely used term, typically implying intense suffering or torment, often in a metaphorical sense.
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Examples of usage
- They sentenced him to death by crucifixion.
- Crucifixion was a common form of punishment in the Roman Empire.
- The crucifixion of Jesus is a central event in Christian theology.
Art
A representation of Jesus Christ hanging on the cross, often used as a symbol of the Christian faith.
Synonyms
Christ on the cross, cross, crucifix.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| crucifixion |
Refer to the description given earlier. This term is employed when discussing the act or event of being executed on a cross.
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| crucifix |
Typically used to refer to a cross that includes a representation of Jesus' body. It is found in religious art and objects, especially within Catholic tradition. This term is important in discussions about Christian symbols and artifacts.
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| cross |
This is a versatile term that can refer to the physical object used for crucifixion, a symbol of Christianity, or more abstractly in expressions and idioms. It is widely used in both secular and religious contexts.
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| Christ on the cross |
Used primarily in religious settings to directly refer to the image or representation of Jesus Christ being crucified. It is common in discussions about Christian art, iconography, and devotion.
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Examples of usage
- The painting depicted the crucifixion of Jesus.
- She wore a necklace with a small crucifixion charm.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “crucifixion”
Crucifixion is a 4-syllable noun (cru-ci-fix-ion). It is pronounced /ˌkɹusɪˈfɪkʃən/ in American English and /kɹˈuːsɪfˌɪkʃən/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 6 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #17,855 among the most common English words.
Did you know?
“crucifixion” in historical origins
- The practice originated in ancient Persia and was later adopted by the Romans as a method of execution for criminals.
- It was mainly used as a public spectacle to deter others from committing crimes.
- More than 500 known individuals were reportedly crucified during the time of the Roman Empire.
“crucifixion” in religious significance
- In Christianity, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a central event, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption.
- Many Christian denominations commemorate this event during Good Friday, reflecting on its importance to their faith.
- The cross, as a symbol of crucifixion, is widely recognized and used in religious iconography.
“crucifixion” in cultural references
- The theme of crucifixion has appeared in various forms of art, from paintings like 'The Last Supper' to modern films depicting the life of Christ.
- Literature often uses crucifixion symbolically to represent suffering or ultimate sacrifice, seen in various literary works.
- Musicals and plays, such as 'Jesus Christ Superstar', have explored this theme in contemporary storytelling.
“crucifixion” in psychological perspectives
- In a psychological context, the crucifixion is analyzed as a symbol of suffering, illustrating human endurance and resilience.
- The concept of martyrdom related to crucifixion often invokes discussions about sacrifice and personal beliefs.
- Trauma theorists explore the impacts of public punishments, like crucifixion, on societal behaviors and fears.
“crucifixion” in modern relevance
- The image of the crucifixion continues to evoke strong emotional responses in contemporary discussions about justice and morality.
- Organizations advocating against capital punishment often refer to historical methods like crucifixion to highlight the inhumanity of such practices.
- Crucifixion remains a powerful metaphor in social justice movements, symbolizing the fight against oppression.
Origin of 'crucifixion'
The word 'crucifixion' originated from the Latin word 'crucifixio', which means 'a fixing to a cross'. The practice of crucifixion was widely used by the Romans for punishing criminals and slaves. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a central event in Christian theology, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption.
Rhymes
Crucifixion rhymes with interdiction, jurisdiction, conviction, fiction, friction, restriction, prediction and contradiction.