Stigmata: meaning, definitions and examples

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stigmata

 

[ stɪɡˈmɑːtə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious context

Stigmata refers to physical manifestations of bodily marks, sores, or sensations of pain that correspond to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, they are considered a sign of holiness and are often associated with mystical experiences. Individuals who bear stigmata are believed to be divinely chosen, experiencing suffering that reflects the Passion of Christ. This phenomenon has been reported throughout Christian history, particularly among saints and mystics.

Synonyms

marks, scars, wounds

Examples of usage

  • The saint was known for her stigmata.
  • He claimed to have experienced stigmata during prayer.
  • Stigmata appeared on his hands during the retreat.

Translations

Translations of the word "stigmata" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estigmas

🇮🇳 स्तिग्माटा

🇩🇪 Stigmata

🇮🇩 stigmata

🇺🇦 стигмати

🇵🇱 stigmaty

🇯🇵 聖痕

🇫🇷 stigmates

🇪🇸 estigmas

🇹🇷 stigmata

🇰🇷 성흔

🇸🇦 الآثار

🇨🇿 stigmaty

🇸🇰 stigmaty

🇨🇳 圣痕

🇸🇮 stigmate

🇮🇸 stigmata

🇰🇿 стигмата

🇬🇪 სტიგმატა

🇦🇿 stigmat

🇲🇽 estigmas

Word origin

The term 'stigmata' comes from the Greek word 'stigma,' meaning 'a mark' or 'a brand.' Initially used to denote a physical mark or scar, it evolved in Christian context to refer specifically to the wounds of Christ as depicted in the New Testament. By the Middle Ages, reports of individuals bearing stigmata gained prominence, particularly among Franciscans who sought to emulate the suffering of Christ. Figures such as St. Francis of Assisi, who is one of the first recorded cases of stigmata, played a significant role in popularizing the phenomenon. The concept of stigmata reflects the deep roots of mysticism in Christian spiritual practice, emphasizing suffering and devotion as pathways to divine experience. Over the centuries, numerous saints, including St. Catherine of Siena and St. Padre Pio, reported experiencing stigmata, reinforcing its significance within Catholic tradition. As a result, stigmata serves as a symbol of spiritual connection and the intense love for Christ, manifesting as a physical embodiment of faith and devotion.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,610, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.