English Reference
Noun

christening

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈkɹɪsənɪŋ/ UK /kɹˈɪstənɪŋ/ chris·ten·ing UK spelling christenings

n.a religious ceremony where a baby is given a name. It is a common tradition in many Christian families.

n.a religious ceremony in which a baby is given a name and baptized. Often used to refer to the event itself rather than the act of baptism.


SIMPLE

The family is planning a christening for their new baby.

CONTEXTUAL

The christening took place in the local church on a Saturday morning, with many relatives attending to celebrate.

COMPLEX

While the christening is a significant social event, the family chose to keep the ceremony private to allow for a more intimate gathering of close friends and family.


From Middle English cristenynge, from Old English cristnung; compare christen + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old English cristnung
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated