Sacrifice: meaning, definitions and examples
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sacrifice
[ ˈsakrəˌfʌɪs ]
religious ritual
The act of offering something valuable to a deity or higher power, often in the form of an animal or object, as a part of a religious ceremony or ritual. Sacrifices are believed to bring favor from the gods and ensure the well-being of the community.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Abraham was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice by offering his son as a sacrifice to God.
- The ancient Mayans practiced human sacrifices to appease their gods and ensure a good harvest.
giving up something for a greater cause
The act of giving up something valuable or important for the sake of a higher purpose or principle. Sacrifices can involve personal desires, comforts, or even one's own well-being for the benefit of others or a greater goal.
Synonyms
altruism, dedication, selflessness
Examples of usage
- She made the sacrifice of quitting her job to take care of her sick mother.
- The soldiers showed immense bravery and sacrifice in defending their country.
to give up something valuable
To willingly give up something valuable or precious in order to achieve a specific goal or fulfill a duty. Sacrificing often involves making a hard choice that involves personal loss or hardship.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He sacrificed his own happiness for the sake of his family's well-being.
- She sacrificed her free time to help out with the charity event.
Translations
Translations of the word "sacrifice" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sacrifício
🇮🇳 बलिदान
🇩🇪 Opfer
🇮🇩 pengorbanan
🇺🇦 жертва
- пожертва
- самопожертва
🇵🇱 ofiara
🇯🇵 犠牲 (ぎせい)
🇫🇷 sacrifice
🇪🇸 sacrificio
🇹🇷 kurban
🇰🇷 희생 (犧牲)
🇸🇦 تضحية
🇨🇿 oběť
🇸🇰 obeť
🇨🇳 牺牲 (xīshēng)
🇸🇮 žrtev
🇮🇸 fórn
🇰🇿 құрбандық
🇬🇪 მსხვერპლი
🇦🇿 qurban
🇲🇽 sacrificio
Word origin
The word 'sacrifice' originates from the Latin word 'sacrificium', which is derived from 'sacer' (sacred) and 'facere' (to make). The concept of sacrifice has deep roots in religious and cultural practices throughout history, with offerings made to deities or spirits for various purposes. Sacrifice symbolizes devotion, commitment, and the willingness to give up something of value for a higher purpose.