Word Study
auto-da-fé
CIDE DICTIONARY
auto-da-fé, n. [Pg., act of the faith; auto act, fr. L. actus + da of the + fé faith, fr. L. fides.].
- A judgment of the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal condemning or acquitting persons accused of religious offenses. [1913 Webster]
- An execution of such sentence, by the civil power, esp. the burning of a heretic. It was usually held on Sunday, and was made a great public solemnity by impressive forms and ceremonies. [1913 Webster]
- A session of the court of Inquisition. [1913 Webster]
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