sacrificial

adjective

sac·​ri·​fi·​cial ˌsa-krə-ˈfi-shəl 

1

: of, relating to, of the nature of, or involving sacrifice

2

: of or relating to a metal that serves as an anode which is electrolytically consumed instead of another metal that is present

sacrificially

ˌsa-krə-ˈfi-shə-lē 

adverb

Examples of sacrificial in a Sentence

their sacrificial acts of self-denial

Recent Examples on the Web

In a world often driven by self-interest and divisiveness, Jesus' example of sacrificial love and unwavering commitment to truth serves as a beacon of hope and a model for all who seek to lead with integrity and compassion. —Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 9 July 2024

All this suggests that the Maya selected pairs of male children for sacrificial rituals associated with the chultún. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 12 June 2024

Archaeologists believe their placement in the lake was the result of a sacrificial deposit, officials said. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 18 June 2024

Details about the cultural context for these sacrifices remain fuzzy, so scientists conduced genetic analysis on ancient remains of some of the sacrificial victims to learn more. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 12 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sacrificial

• sacrificial lamb

Kids Definition

sacrificial

adjective

sac·​ri·​fi·​cial ˌsak-rə-ˈfish-əl 

: of or relating to sacrifice

sacrificially

-ə-lē 

adverb