Sacrificed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sacrificed

[ˈsækrɪfaɪst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past action

Sacrificed refers to the act of giving up something valuable or important for the sake of something or someone else. It often implies a sense of loss or selflessness.

Synonyms

forfeited, gave up, offered, surrendered.

Examples of usage

  • She sacrificed her career for her family.
  • He sacrificed his free time to help his friends.
  • They sacrificed their comfort to aid those in need.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many religions practice sacrifices during rituals, which can reflect devotion or penitence.
  • In various cultures, the concept of sacrificing has been used as a form of social bonding, strengthening community ties.
  • Some traditions involve sacrificing symbolic objects, highlighting the value placed on intentions over physical loss.

Psychology

  • Sacrificing can be tied to feelings of altruism, where individuals act for the benefit of others.
  • Research suggests that people may sacrifice their own happiness for loved ones, indicating deep emotional bonds.
  • The phenomenon of 'sunk cost fallacy' shows how past sacrifices can affect future decision-making, where individuals continue investing in a loss simply because they’ve given up so much already.

Literature

  • Many classic stories, like 'The Giving Tree' by Shel Silverstein, explore the theme of sacrifice, depicting the deep emotional and physical costs of giving.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often face moral dilemmas where they must sacrifice their desires for a greater good.
  • Popular narratives, such as fairy tales, often feature protagonists who must make significant sacrifices to achieve their goals or restore balance.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often glorify the act of sacrifice, creating heroes who give up their lives for the greater good, like in 'The Avengers'.
  • Many songs reflect themes of sacrifice, detailing the emotional toll and reward tied to the act of giving up something significant.
  • Video games frequently incorporate sacrifice in storylines, where players must choose between personal gain and the well-being of others.

Origin of 'sacrificed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sacrificium', which means 'to make sacred' or 'to offer to a deity.'
  • This term can be traced back to ancient practices where animals or crops were given up in religious ceremonies.
  • The roots of the word also include 'sacer', meaning sacred or holy, highlighting the importance often placed on what is sacrificed.

The word 'sacrifice' comes from the Latin word 'sacrificium', which is a combination of 'sacer' meaning 'sacred' and 'facere' meaning 'to make' or 'to do'. This historical context reveals how the term was originally used in religious practices where offerings were made to deities. Over time, the usage of 'sacrifice' evolved and broadened, coming to encompass a variety of contexts beyond the strictly religious. Today, it can describe any situation where an individual relinquishes something important for a greater cause, personal gain, or for the benefit of others. The notion of sacrifice is central to many cultural and social discussions, often highlighting themes of altruism, duty, and the moral implications of giving up one's own interests.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,074 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.