Vocabulary Spotlight

Beatitude

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Supreme blessedness or utmost bliss; in Christianity, a declaration of blessedness.

“She was filled with beatitude as she watched the sunrise over the mountains.”

Pronunciation

[bee-at-i-tood]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Bliss
Joy
Serenity
Contentment
Happiness

Antonyms

Misery
Sadness
Despair
Anguish
Sorrow

Related Words

Beatific
Blessing
Divine

Word Origin

“Beatitude” comes from the Latin “beatitudo,” meaning “blessedness.” In Christian contexts, it refers to the blessings pronounced by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.

Word Family

Noun: Beatitude – Supreme happiness or blessing.

Related Adjective: Beatific – Blissfully happy or blessed.

Mnemonics

Think of “Beatitude” as “Be at the ultimate attitude” of joy or blessing.

Industry-specific Usage

Religion

In religious contexts, “beatitude” refers to the blessings given by Jesus, symbolizing the promise of eternal joy for believers.

Philosophy

Philosophers discuss beatitude as the ultimate state of happiness or fulfillment in life.

Literature

In literature, beatitude may depict characters experiencing supreme happiness or a sense of spiritual fulfillment.

In Context

The concept of beatitude often implies a profound state of happiness, contentment, or spiritual peace. It is a central theme in Christian teachings and philosophical discussions on ultimate happiness and fulfillment.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which word is most similar to “beatitude”?

Sadness
Bliss
Anguish
Despair

“Bliss” is correct, as beatitude refers to a state of supreme happiness or blessedness.

2. Fill in the blank: The ancient text described a state of pure _______ in the afterlife.

despair
confusion
beatitude
sorrow

“Beatitude” is correct, as it signifies a state of blissful happiness or blessedness.

3. In Christian teachings, the Beatitudes refer to:

Blessings
Sins
Punishments
Sacrifices

“Blessings” is the correct answer, as the Beatitudes are blessings pronounced by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.