How Do You Spell STIGMATA?

Pronunciation: [stɪɡmˈɑːtə] (IPA)

The word "stigmata" is spelled with six letters and is pronounced /stɪɡˈmɑːtə/. The initial "s" is followed by "t", "i", "g" and "m", and the last syllable is made up of "a" and "t" with a schwa sound in between. The word refers to marks or wounds that resemble the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ, often experienced by some devout Christians. The spelling of this word is of Greek origin and has been used since the thirteenth century.

STIGMATA Meaning and Definition

  1. Stigmata is a noun that refers to the external bodily marks, sores, or wounds resembling the wounds suffered by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. Derived from the Greek word "stigma" meaning "mark" or "brand," it is primarily associated with religious mysticism and occurs on the hands, feet, forehead, or side of an individual, corresponding to the placement of the nails and spear in Christ's crucifixion story.

    In religious contexts, stigmata is often viewed as a miraculous or divine phenomenon. Those who experience stigmata are commonly believed to be chosen by God or possess a deep connection to sacred powers. These marks are often accompanied by intense physical pain and bleeding, which make them particularly significant to those interpreting them as a sign of spiritual devotion or suffering.

    While stigmata is most commonly associated with Roman Catholicism, where it has been reported in various saints throughout history, it can also occur within other Christian denominations and non-Christian religious traditions. The reports of stigmatized individuals have sparked debates regarding their authenticity, with skepticism and scientific explanations sometimes being put forward to challenge the notion of their supernatural origin.

    In a broader sense, the term "stigmata" has been adapted to describe any significant physical or emotional scars that serve as conspicuous evidence of trauma, suffering, or societal rejection. It can also refer to the adverse effects or enduring implications of deeply ingrained attitudes, prejudices, or stereotypes that marginalize certain groups in society.

  2. Plural of stigma.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. • Anything which tarnishes character or reputation; any mark of infamy; in bot., the naked upper portion of the pistil on which the fertilising pollen falls.
    • The spiracles or breathing-pores of insects; the marks of the wounds on Christ's body, or marks resembling them.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for STIGMATA

Etymology of STIGMATA

The word "stigmata" comes from the Greek noun "stigma" (στίγμα) in its plural form "stigmata" (στίγματα). The word originally meant a mark, puncture, or brand, typically from a pointed instrument. In the context of Christianity, "stigmata" refer to the wounds or marks resembling those of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ appearing on the body of a person, usually a devout believer. The word "stigma" itself can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *steig-, meaning "to prick" or "to point".

Similar spelling words for STIGMATA

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