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immolate

verb

/ˈɪməˌleɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of immolate

To offer or sacrifice someone or something, often by setting it on fire as a religious or ritualistic offering.
"The rebels threatened to immolate the king's treasures."

Detailed meaning of immolate

This term is deeply associated with sacrificial practices in various cultures throughout history, where individuals or animals were immolated to appease deities, seek divine favor, or fulfill spiritual obligations. In a broader sense, "immolate" can also be used metaphorically to describe actions that involve sacrificing one's own interests, well-being, or values for a greater cause or principle. It often implies a willingness to endure personal suffering or loss for a higher purpose or ideal. While less common in modern contexts, the term "immolate" still carries connotations of extreme devotion, selflessness, or dedication to a particular belief or cause, often involving great personal sacrifice.

Example sentences containing immolate

1. The ancient ceremony involved followers who would immolate animals as offerings.
2. To appease the gods, they would immolate grains and fruits in sacred fires.
3. The cult believed they must immolate a chosen follower to gain favor.
4. The priest prepared to immolate the sacred offering to ensure a good harvest.
5. As part of the ritual, they would immolate a symbolic effigy of their fears.
6. The religious sect's customs included the practice to immolate devotees.

History and etymology of immolate

The verb 'immolate' has its origins in the Latin word 'immolare,' which combines 'in' (upon) and 'mola' (a ritual cake or meal offering). In ancient Roman religious practices, 'immolare' referred to the act of offering a sacrifice, typically an animal, by placing it upon an altar and often by setting it on fire as part of a religious or ritualistic ceremony. This concept of sacrificial offerings, especially those involving fire, was central to many ancient religious traditions. Over time, in English, 'immolate' evolved to describe the act of offering or sacrificing someone or something, often with the connotation of extreme devotion or ritualistic significance. Thus, the etymology of 'immolate' reflects its historical association with the solemn act of religious sacrifice, particularly those involving fire.

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Further usage examples of immolate

1. The tradition required them to immolate a wooden idol at the temple.
2. To honor their ancestors, they would immolate incense and offerings.
3. The ritual would climax when they'd immolate the effigy under the full moon.
4. They would immolate a precious artifact to seek protection from misfortune.
5. The devotees prepared to immolate themselves in a show of unwavering faith.
6. In the chilling novel, the protagonist chose to immolate his past memories.
7. Many cultures throughout history did not immolate in their ceremonies.
8. To achieve his artistic vision, the sculptor would immolate a replica first.
9. It is illegal and immoral to immolate any living being.
10. Some believe to immolate can purify, but others vehemently disagree.
11. The tribe would immolate a token to appease the gods.
12. Rumors suggested that the cult sought to immolate an artifact.
13. To immolate or not: that was the moral quandary he faced.
14. They were horrified to learn the enemy might immolate the city's relics.
15. Legends tell of wizards who would immolate a phoenix feather for great power.
16. No one could understand why he chose to immolate such valuable paintings.
17. The document mentioned a ceremony where they would immolate a symbol of peace.
18. Environmentalists warned that to immolate the forest would destroy the ecosystem.
19. To immolate one's possessions was seen as a sign of ultimate sacrifice.
20. She read the ancient text, searching for a reason they would immolate such items.
21. Many argue that to immolate is to show disrespect to life and history.
22. As the festivities began, the chief prepared to immolate a wooden figure.
23. The crowd watched in awe and fear, unsure of why they chose to immolate that object.
24. The ancient rituals required the priest to immolate an offering.