calvary

noun

cal·​va·​ry ˈkal-v(ə-)rē How to pronounce calvary (audio)
plural calvaries
1
: an open-air representation of the crucifixion of Jesus
2
: an experience of usually intense mental suffering

Examples of calvary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some of these calvaries, like one of the oldest, at Tronoën, near the seashore southwest of Quimper, assemble an enormous cast of actors. Rosanna Warren, Harper's Magazine, 25 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Calvary, the hill near Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of calvary was in 1815

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Cite this Entry

“Calvary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calvary. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

Geographical Definition

Calvary

geographical name

Cal·​va·​ry ˈkal-v(ə-)rē How to pronounce Calvary (audio)
variants or Hebrew Golgotha
ˈgäl-gə-thə How to pronounce Calvary (audio)
gäl-ˈgä-thə
place outside ancient Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified

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