Spiritualize: meaning, definitions and examples

To give a spiritual meaning or significance to something. Often used in a religious or philosophical context.

• The priest's sermon helped to spiritualize the congregation's understanding of everyday challenges

British English variant of 'spiritualize'. The context and examples are the same as 'spiritualize'.

• His artistic work tries to spiritualise the mundane aspects of life

To make something holy or set it apart as sacred. Frequently used in religious ceremonies or contexts.

• The newly built church was sanctified by the bishop
• They believed their mission was sanctified by a higher power

To remove impurities or unwanted elements from something. Can be used in both a physical and a moral or spiritual sense.

• The water filter is designed to purify drinking water
• The meditation retreat aims to purify the mind of negative thoughts