: consecrated oil used in Greek and Latin churches especially in baptism, chrismation, confirmation, and ordination

Examples of chrism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The chrism oil, or holy oil, used in Charles’ coronation is based from the same oil that was used in Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. Amy Haneline, USA TODAY, 6 May 2023 Even today, King Charles has resolved to follow his mother’s example by banning cameras from what is considered the most sacred part of the coronation service, in which he is anointed with what is called the oil of chrism. Alan Cowell, New York Times, 2 May 2023 The oil that will be used is known as chrism, which has been extracted from the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, one of the holiest Christian sites. Rachel Silva, ELLE Decor, 5 Apr. 2023 The chrism oil, or holy oil, that will be used at King Charles III's coronation is based from the same oil that was used in Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. Elise Brisco, USA TODAY, 3 Mar. 2023 The particular chrism of Bethany Union Church of Chicago is to sponsor, promote, and offer good, wholesome and compassionate experiences, and programs that can make a difference in the lives of our community. Patti Ahern, Daily Southtown, 16 May 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'chrism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English crisme, from Old English crisma, from Late Latin chrisma, from Greek, ointment, from chriein to anoint

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chrism was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near chrism

Cite this Entry

“Chrism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chrism. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on chrism

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!