tonsure

[ˈtɒn.ʃər]

tonsure Definition

the act of cutting the hair, especially the hair on the head, as a religious practice or rite of passage.

Using tonsure: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tonsure" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The monk's head was shaved in a traditional tonsure ceremony.

  • Example

    In some cultures, the first tonsure is an important rite of passage for young boys.

  • Example

    The bishop performed the tonsure on the new priest.

  • Example

    The tonsure is a symbol of religious devotion.

tonsure Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tonsure

Phrases with tonsure

  • a complete shaving of the head, often as a sign of religious devotion or mourning

    Example

    The monks in this order practice a complete tonsure.

  • tonsure collar

    a type of clerical collar that is circular and fits around the neck, worn by some Christian clergy who have received the tonsure

    Example

    The priest wore a black shirt with a white tonsure collar.

  • tonsure ceremony

    a religious ceremony in which a person's hair is cut or shaved off, often as a sign of religious devotion or initiation into a religious order

    Example

    The tonsure ceremony was held in the church with all the members of the order present.

Origins of tonsure

from Latin 'tonsurare', meaning 'to shear'

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Summary: tonsure in Brief

'Tonsure' [ˈtɒn.ʃər] refers to the act of cutting hair, especially on the head, as a religious practice or rite of passage. It is often used in religious contexts, such as the tonsure ceremony, where a person's hair is cut or shaved off as a sign of religious devotion or initiation into a religious order. The term also includes phrases like 'complete tonsure,' which refers to a complete shaving of the head, and 'tonsure collar,' which is a type of clerical collar worn by some Christian clergy who have received the tonsure.