n
a ceremony at which a person officially becomes a member of the Christian Church, usually while still a baby. The priest baptizes the child by putting water from the font (= a special bowl) on the child’s head and gives it a name. Promises are made on behalf of the child by its godparents. A christening is a special occasion for a family, although fewer people have one now than in the past. The baby wears a special dress, or christening robe , and receives christening presents , which are often things made of silver.