v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Consecrated; p. pr. & vb. n. Consecrating. ] 1. To make, or declare to be, sacred; to appropriate to sacred uses; to set apart, dedicate, or devote, to the service or worship of God; as, to consecrate a church; to give (one's self) unreservedly, as to the service of God. [ 1913 Webster ] One day in the week is . . . consecrated to a holy rest. Sharp. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To set apart to a sacred office; as, to consecrate a bishop. [ 1913 Webster ] Thou shalt consecrate Aaron and his sons. Ex. xxix. 9. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. To canonize; to exalt to the rank of a saint; to enroll among the gods, as a Roman emperor. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. To render venerable or revered; to hallow; to dignify; as, rules or principles consecrated by time. Burke. Syn. -- See Addict. [ 1913 Webster ] |