Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/dɪˈlɪvərəns/

Definitions

• (noun) The action of being rescued or set free from a state of danger, oppression, or hardship.
• (noun) The state of being delivered or liberated from something undesirable, often used in religious or spiritual contexts.
• (noun) The act of providing assistance or relief to someone or something in a time of need.

Usage Examples

• "The soldiers' deliverance from captivity was celebrated as a great victory."
• "She prayed for deliverance from the burdens that weighed heavily on her mind."
• "The organization worked tirelessly toward the deliverance of the refugees from war-torn regions."

Etymology

From Middle English "deliverance" (rescued from Latin "deliberatio" meaning 'to set free'). The word combines "deliver" from Old French "delivrer" (to free or release) with the suffix "-ance," indicating a state or quality. Its use in religious texts refers to divine intervention to rescue individuals from affliction.

Synonyms

• Rescue
• Salvation
• Release
• Freedom
• Emancipation

Antonyms

• Imprisonment
• Captivity
• Enslavement
• Subjugation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "deliverance" varies based on regional dialects. In American English, the stress is typically on the second syllable (/dɪˈlɪvərəns/), whereas in British English, the pronunciation may slightly emphasize the first syllable. In non-native languages, the pronunciation is influenced by the phonetic structure of the language.

Historical Usage

The word "deliverance" has its roots in religious and historical contexts. It was often used to describe divine intervention or freedom from oppression, particularly in Christian texts. Over time, its use expanded into general contexts, including political, social, and personal freedoms.

Cultural Nuances

"Deliverance" carries strong connotations in various cultural and religious contexts. In Christianity, it often refers to God's intervention to free individuals from sin or suffering. In secular contexts, it may refer to any act of rescue or freedom, whether from danger, distress, or captivity. The term is deeply ingrained in narratives of liberation, both in spiritual and practical terms.

More Information

The concept of deliverance is central to many cultural and religious traditions. In its broadest sense, deliverance refers to the act of being freed or saved from a difficult situation. It has been used extensively in literature, theology, and social movements, where it represents a journey from bondage or oppression to freedom or salvation. Understanding its varied meanings helps us appreciate its cultural significance across different contexts.