sacrificium
[sa.krɪˈfɪ.ki.ũː]
The English phrase 'sacrifice' translates to the Latin sacrificium.
The term is a verb meaning to destroy or surrender something for the sake of something else regarded as more urgent or valuable.
Meaning: to destroy or surrender (something) for the sake of something else regarded as more urgent or valuable (verb)
Which one should you use?
While sacrificium is the general term for sacrifice, Hostia is used specifically for a victim or offering and Immolatio refers specifically to the act of immolation or ritual slaughter.
Did you know?
- The Roman concept of sacrificium was rooted in the legalistic idea of do ut des, which means 'I give so that you might give'.
- The word sacrificium literally means to 'make a holy act' because it combines sacrum for 'holy' and faciō for 'do' or 'make'.
- In many Roman contexts, the word hostia (a victim) is not just a noun for an offering, but carries the weight of a replacement, where the animal 'stands in' for the person.
Examples in context
- Pontifex maximus ritum sacrificii duxit.The high priest led the ritual of sacrifice.
- Devotus sum oblationi meae.I am devoted to my offering.
- Vitam meam in mortificationem tradidi.I dedicated my life to self-sacrifice.
Example conversation
Marcus and Claudia discuss their priorities.
- MarcusCur hoc sacrificium facis, Claudia?Why are you making this sacrifice, Claudia?
- ClaudiaPro familia mea sacrificium facere volo.I want to make a sacrifice for my family.
- MarcusSed tua vita est pretiosa.But your life is precious.
- ClaudiaAmor meus est maius sacrificium.My love is a greater sacrifice.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sacrificium, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sacrificium, CC BY-SA 4.0.
