ˈbæptɪzm n. 1 a
the religious rite, symbolizing
admission to the
Christian Church, of
sprinkling the
forehead with water, or (usu.
only with adults) by
immersion,
generally accompanied by name-giving. b the
act of baptizing or
being baptized. 2 an initiation, e.g.
into battle. 3 the naming of ships, church bells, etc. øbaptism of
fire 1 initiation into battle. 2 a
painful new undertaking or
experience. øøbaptismal adj. [ME f. OF ba(p)te(s)me f. eccl.L baptismus f. eccl.Gk baptismos f. baptizo BAPTIZE]