liturgy

noun

lit·​ur·​gy ˈli-tər-jē 

plural liturgies

1

often capitalized : a eucharistic rite

2

: a rite or body of rites prescribed for public worship

a baptismal liturgy

3

: a customary repertoire of ideas, phrases, or observances

Examples of liturgy in a Sentence

studying the liturgies of different religions

He was studying Christian liturgy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Composed in 1915, this 15-movement work is deeply rooted in the Russian Orthodox liturgy, blending traditional chants with Rachmaninoff’s rich harmonies. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025

These uses of shalom stem from our liturgy, which is filled with prayers for peace (Sim Shalom, Oseh Shalom). —Sarah Bunin Benor, Sun Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2025

With the start of Trump's second term, Rankins said Call to Action is planning on increasing its number of liturgies, educational efforts and tangible aid to marginalized groups as a means of putting their faith into practice. —Liam Adams, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025

In fact, he's asked the master of ceremonies to radically simplify the traditional liturgy for a papal funeral. —Daniel Burke, NPR, 14 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin liturgia, from Greek leitourgia public service, from Greek (Attic) leïton public building (from Greek laos — Attic leōs — people) + -ourgia -urgy

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

liturgy

noun

lit·​ur·​gy ˈlit-ər-jē 

plural liturgies

: a religious rite or body of rites

liturgical

lə-ˈtər-ji-kəl

li-

adjective