Oblate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oblate

[ษ™สŠหˆbleษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious term

An oblate is a person who is associated with a religious community but does not live in the community or take the formal vows. Oblates often follow the spiritual practices and rules of the community and contribute to its work.

Synonyms

associate, lay member.

Examples of usage

  • He became an oblate at the Benedictine monastery.
  • The oblate offered his services during the church festival.
  • Many oblates participate in prayer and meditation sessions.
Context #2 | Adjective

shape description

Oblate is used to describe a shape that is flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator, resembling an elongated sphere. This term is often used in geometry and astronomy.

Synonyms

flattened, squashed.

Examples of usage

  • The planet is not perfectly round; it has an oblate shape.
  • Scientists observed the oblate nature of the star's surface.
  • The oblate ellipsoid model helps in understanding Earth's shape.

Translations

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Origin of 'oblate'

The word 'oblate' originates from the Latin term 'oblatus', which is the past participle of 'offerre', meaning 'to offer'. In the context of religion, it refers to someone who has offered themselves to God, particularly in the Western monastic tradition. Oblates were often laypersons who committed to the values and spiritual practices of a monastic community without becoming monks themselves. Historically, the concept of oblates emerged in the early medieval period, with many monastic orders establishing rules to formalize the relationship between oblates and the communities. Over time, the term has also been used in scientific contexts to describe shapes, reflecting the broader nature of offering and commitment to a particular identity or form.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,391, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.