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Definitions

sacrifice

[sak-ruh-fahys] / ˈsæk rəˌfaɪs /
NOUN
loss
Synonyms
STRONG
atonement deduction discount libation oblation offering penance reduction reparation
WEAK
sacrificial lamb
Antonyms
STRONG
increase rise
VERB
give up, let go
Synonyms
STRONG
cede drop endure eschew forfeit forgo immolate lose offer renounce spare suffer surrender waive yield
WEAK
kiss goodbye offer up part with resign oneself to
Antonyms
STRONG
continue deny disallow fight gain keep refuse reject win withhold
WEAK
hold

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

You earned it, with a lifetime of planning and, probably, not a small amount of sacrifice.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Easter centers on themes of sacrifice, resurrection and redemption.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

In the fifth, he drove in a run with a sacrifice pop fly.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

"God Bless America and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend her," the caption said.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

All the wisdom of Mimir’s well was his, and the wisdom he had gained from hanging from the world-tree, a sacrifice to himself.

From "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman