Liturgy
/ˈlɪtərˌdʒi/
Definitions
The customary public worship performed by a religious group, including a prescribed order of prayers, readings, and rituals.
/ˈlɪtərˌdʒi/
A set form of public religious worship.
The priest carefully followed the liturgy during the service.
💡 Simply: Imagine going to a church or temple. The liturgy is like the specific steps they follow for the service – the readings, the songs, and the prayers, all in a set order. It’s the 'recipe' for the worship.
👶 For kids: It's like a special way of doing church or a religious ceremony, with special words and actions that are always the same.
More Examples
The church is known for its rich and elaborate liturgy.
The changes in the liturgy reflected the changing times.
How It's Used
"The church followed the traditional liturgy for the Sunday service."
"Scholars debate the evolution of the liturgy over the centuries."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Greek *leitourgía* ('public service, ministry'), derived from *lāós* ('people') + *érgon* ('work'). Initially referred to public service or duty in ancient Greece, later evolving to refer to religious rituals and practices.
In historical texts, liturgy often referred to the official, prescribed forms of worship used by a particular church or religious body. The term has changed little in meaning over time.
Memory tip
Think of a 'light tour' guiding a group through worship.
Word Origin
"public service or ministry"