Sacrifice

Definition

Sacrifice refers to the act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsækrɪˌfaɪs/
• Respelling: SAK-ri-fys (with "SAK" as in "back," "ri" as a quick, soft sound like the 'i' in "rip," and "fys" rhyming with "eyes")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsækrɪfaɪs/
• Respelling: SAK-ri-fys (similar to American English, with "SAK" as in "back," "ri" as in "rip," and "fys" rhyming with "eyes")

In both dialects, "sacrifice" emphasizes the first syllable, with a clear long "i" sound in the final syllable, making the word rhyme with "eyes." The pronunciation is straightforward and consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "sacrifice" comes from Middle English, from Old French, from Latin sacrificium, which combines sacer ("sacred") and facere ("to make").

Derivatives

• Sacrificial
• Sacrificer
• Unscarified
• Resacrifice
• Sacrifiable

Synonyms

• Forfeit
• Renunciation
• Surrender

Antonyms

• Acquisition
• Retainment
• Hoarding

Usage

The term 'sacrifice' is broadly used to describe a situation where something of value is given up for the sake of something deemed to be of greater value or importance.

Related Terms

• Sacrificial lamb
• Sacrifice fly (Baseball term)
• Sacrifice zone

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Religious Offering: An offering of animal, plant, or human life or of some material possession to a deity, as in propitiation or homage.‍
• Example: The ancient ritual involved a sacrifice to the gods for a bountiful harvest.

• Personal or Social Forfeiture: The forfeiture of something highly valued for the sake of one considered to have a greater value or claim.‍
• Example: Parents often make sacrifices for their children’s well-being.

• Loss Incurred: Destruction or surrender of something for the sake of something else.‍
• Example: The sacrifice of personal time for work led to increased stress.

Verb

• To Offer as a Sacrifice: To surrender or give up, or permit injury or disadvantage to, for the sake of something else.‍
• Example: She had to sacrifice her vacation days to meet the project deadline.

• To Dispose of (goods, property, etc.) regardless of profit: Selling without regard to profit.‍
• Example: They had to sacrifice their assets to settle the debts.