Basic Details
Word: Ablution
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The act of washing or cleaning oneself, often for religious purposes.
Synonyms: Washing, cleansing, purification
Antonyms: Filth, dirtiness
Idioms and Phrases
- Ablution before prayer: Refers to washing oneself before engaging in prayer or spiritual practice. Example: "He performed his ablution before entering the temple to be spiritually ready."
- Clean slate: Means starting fresh and without burdens, just as ablution signifies cleansing oneself. Example: "After resolving their differences, they felt like they had a clean slate."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Every morning, she begins her day with an ablution to feel refreshed and ready.
Example 2: Performing ablution is an important ritual before entering many places of worship.
Example 3: The local tradition includes an ablution ceremony before the festival starts, symbolising purification and new beginnings.
Fun Fact
The word "ablution" comes from the Latin word "ablutio", which means "a washing" or "to wash off", highlighting its connection to cleanliness and purification practices in various cultures.
Famous Quote
"Cleanliness is next to godliness." - John Wesley.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "ablution" mean?
a) A type of dance
b) The act of washing oneself
c) A type of food
d) A musical instrument
Answer: b) The act of washing oneself
2. Which of these is a synonym of "ablution"?
a) Cleansing
b) Product
c) Celebration
d) Fashion
Answer: a) Cleansing
3. Which of the following describes the opposite of "ablution"?
a) Cleanliness
b) Purity
c) Dirtiness
d) Sanitation
Answer: c) Dirtiness
4. Which sentence uses "ablution" correctly?
a) The ablution smells wonderful.
b) After a long hike, he enjoyed an ablution in the river.
c) The ablution took a lot of time.
d) She wore an ablution to the party.
Answer: b) After a long hike, he enjoyed an ablution in the river.
5. What does the phrase "ablution before prayer" mean?
a) Using a prayer book
b) Washing oneself before praying
c) Singing during prayers
d) Lighting candles
Answer: b) Washing oneself before praying
