A public announcement or proclamation; specifically in Christianity, the angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she would bear Jesus.
From Latin 'annuntiatio,' derived from 'annuntiare' (to announce). The capitalized version refers to the specific biblical event celebrated on March 25th as a Christian holy day.
The Annunciation is one of Christianity's most pivotal moments—the moment God's plan for human salvation was revealed to Mary—which is why this word carries such spiritual and artistic weight across centuries.
The Annunciation is a Christian theological event centered on Mary's passivity and obedience; centuries of art, theology, and culture have positioned women as vessels receiving divine will rather than agents of choice.
Use secularly when describing announcements; when referencing the religious event, acknowledge Mary as a theological subject making a choice within her tradition, not merely a passive recipient.
["announcement","declaration","proclamation"]
Mary of Nazareth has been reclaimed by feminist theology and art as an active participant in incarnational theology, not a passive vessel—her 'yes' was a conscious decision with cosmic consequence.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.