Category:Tonsure

Ton"sure, n. Etym: [f., fr. L. tonsura a shearing, clipping, from Tondere, tonsum, to shear, shave; cf. Gr. tome.]

1. The act of clipping the hair, or of shaving the crown of the head; Also, the state of being shorn.

2. (r. C. Ch.) (a) the first ceremony used for devoting a person to the service of God and the church; the first degree of the clericate, given by a Bishop, abbot, or cardinal priest, consisting in cutting off the hair From a circular space at the back of the head, with prayers and Benedictions; hence, entrance or admission into minor orders. (b) the shaven corona, or crown, which priests wear as a mark of Their order and of their rank.