Enshrinement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
enshrinement
[ษชnหสraษชnmษnt ]
Definition
formal recognition
Enshrinement refers to the act of placing something in a shrine, or treating it with great reverence and respect. Often used in a figurative sense, it signifies giving something a place of honor or permanent recognition. This can pertain to cultural, historical, or personal artifacts, as well as ideas and beliefs. The term conveys a strong sense of safeguarding and honoring the significance of the subject in question.
Synonyms
honoring, sacralization, sanctification, veneration.
Examples of usage
- The enshrinement of national heroes is a common practice.
- The enshrinement of traditional values is crucial for cultural identity.
- Her enshrinement of family memories in a scrapbook made it special.
- The enshrinement of democracy was celebrated across the nation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, enshrinement practices include memorials for historical figures, preserving their legacy.
- Literary works often depict enshrinement as a means to celebrate values or traits of significance to society.
- Modern museums often enshrine artifacts, giving them a protected status while educating the public about history.
Religion
- In various religions, sacred relics are enshrined to foster veneration and spiritual connection among followers.
- Temples and churches often house enshrined objects, which are believed to hold divine power or significance.
- The act of enshrining can serve as a ritual to honor important figures or events in a faith tradition.
Psychology
- Enshrining memories or values can contribute to personal identity, helping individuals connect with their past.
- Collective enshrinement, such as national holidays, serves to unify a group around common beliefs and history.
- Psychologists study enshrinement as a way people create personal narratives that give meaning to their experiences.
Literature
- Many authors use the concept of enshrinement as a metaphor for preserving ideals or characters in their works.
- Enshrined themes, such as love or sacrifice, often emerge in classic literature, reflecting cultural values.
- Contemporary poetry sometimes explores the emotional aspect of enshrinement, showing how we treasure our memories.
Origin of 'enshrinement'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'enshrine', which means to place something in a shrine, dating back to Middle English.
- Its components, 'en-' (to cause to be) and 'shrine' (a sacred place), highlight the act of honoring.
- The term has evolved to encompass both literal and metaphorical meanings in modern usage.
The term 'enshrinement' originates from the verb 'enshrine', which can be traced back to the early 17th century. 'Enshrine' itself derives from the prefix 'en-', meaning 'to cause to be in', combined with the word 'shrine', which has roots in the Old French 'escrin', meaning 'a receptacle for valuables'. This captures the essence of both protection and reverence associated with putative sacred spaces. Historically, enshrinement was closely related to religious practices, where physical objects believed to possess spiritual significance were preserved in shrines. Over time, the word has adopted a broader application, now encompassing a variety of contexts beyond the strictly spiritual, including cultural and social aspects of preservation and memorialization.