Pronunciation: [ɐfjˈuːʒən] (IPA) 
The word "affusion" is spelled with three syllables: /əˈfjuːʒən/. The first syllable starts with the schwa sound /ə/, followed by the stressed "f" sound /f/. The second syllable has the "oo" sound /uː/ followed by the "j" sound /ʒ/. The final syllable has the schwa sound /ə/ followed by the "n" sound /n/. Affusion is a noun that means the act of pouring liquid on a person's head or body as a religious rite or ceremony.
Affusion is a term commonly used in religious and medical contexts, referring to the act or process of pouring or sprinkling liquid, usually water, onto a person or object. The word derives from the Latin word "affusio" which means "to pour on" or "to pour upon".
In religious contexts, affusion is often associated with the ritual of baptism, particularly in Christian denominations. It involves the pouring or sprinkling of water over an individual's head to symbolize purification, initiation, or to mark their entrance into the faith. Affusion is considered an alternative method to immersion, where the person is fully immersed in water.
In the medical sphere, affusion refers to a therapeutic procedure involving the pouring of a liquid, such as a warm or cold solution, onto a specific body part for various purposes. This technique is primarily used in the treatment of injuries, particularly burns, or to alleviate symptoms in certain conditions. Affusion may be employed to cleanse wounds, cool down body temperature, reduce pain or inflammation, or deliver medication.
Overall, affusion is characterized by the act of pouring or sprinkling a liquid onto a person or object, with its meaning and significance varying depending on the particular context in which it is used.
The pouring of water upon the body or any of its parts for therapeutic purposes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The act of pouring upon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word affusion comes from the Latin word affusio, which is derived from the verb affundere. Affundere is made up of two elements: ad, meaning to or towards, and fundere, meaning to pour. Therefore, affusion literally means to pour on or to pour towards.
