English Lexicon

Auto-da-fé

/ˌɔː.təʊ.dəˈfeɪ/
nounCEFR C2 (Proficient)Top #15000 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A public ceremony during which the sentences of the Inquisition were announced, often involving the execution of heretics.

    "The auto-da-fé was a grim spectacle, drawing large crowds to witness the punishment of those deemed heretical."
  2. 2

    Any act of public punishment or condemnation, especially in a religious context.

    "The concept of auto-da-fé has been referenced in literature to illustrate the dangers of fanaticism."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'auto-da-fé' originates from the Spanish phrase 'acto de fe', meaning 'act of faith'. It was used during the Spanish Inquisition to describe the public ceremony of sentencing heretics, which often included executions. The term has evolved to represent the broader concept of religious persecution.

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