Immaculate Conception

noun

1
: the conception of the Virgin Mary in which as decreed in Roman Catholic dogma her soul was preserved free from original sin by divine grace
2
: December 8 observed as a Roman Catholic feast in commemoration of the Immaculate Conception

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Immaculate Conception was in 1597

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Cite this Entry

“Immaculate Conception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Immaculate%20Conception. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

Immaculate Conception

noun
: December 8 observed as a Roman Catholic festival in honor of the conception of the Virgin Mary as free from original sin

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