consecration ceremony for idols; (figurative) first use
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to consecrate; to perform an eye-opening ceremony
formalA Buddhist or Taoist ritual to spiritually activate a newly created statue of a deity or Buddha, allowing it to receive offerings and prayers. It is often performed by a monk or priest on an auspicious day.
The temple invited a senior monk to consecrate the newly sculpted Buddha statue.
This Bodhisattva statue was only consecrated last month.
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During the consecration ceremony, people prayed devoutly.
verb
to use for the first time; to inaugurate
informalA figurative and informal extension of the original religious meaning. Used when someone uses a new object (like a car, phone, or pen) for the first time, humorously implying it is being 'activated' or 'blessed'.
I just inaugurated my new car today and took the whole family for a drive.
This new fountain pen needs to be used to write something important for it to be 'inaugurated'.