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Tonsure - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Tonsure is the practice of cutting or shaving part of the scalp, often as a religious symbol, particularly in Christian monastic traditions. It signifies devotion or humility.

tonsure

/ˈtɑnʃɚ/ /ˈtɒnʃə/

Definition:

The act of shaving part of the head, especially as a religious rite.

Synonyms:

shaving, clipping, trimming

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

growth, hairiness

Common Collocations:

monastic tonsure, receive tonsure, ceremonial tonsure

Derivatives:

tonsured, tonsuring

Usage Tips:

Use "tonsure" to describe the shaved part of a monk's head or the act of shaving it ritually.

Common Phrases:

take the tonsure, receive the tonsure, ritual tonsure

Etymology:

From Latin "tonsura," meaning "a shearing," from "tondere," meaning "to shear."

Examples:

  • 1. The monk's tonsure symbolized his devotion to God.
  • 2. During the ceremony, the priest performed the tonsure on the novice.
  • 3. His bald patch resembled a medieval tonsure.
  • 4. The tradition of tonsure dates back centuries in many religions.

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