act of faith

1. An action that reveals or proves one's religious devotion. In my sister's religion, walking on hot coals is an act of faith.

2. An action that reveals or proves one's interest or trustworthiness. The millionaire investor is meeting with us as an act of faith, so our presentation has to be absolutely perfect!

3. An action that tests one's morals and/or beliefs. Leaving your infant with another person is a real act of faith when you're a new mom.

act of faith

Behavior that shows or tests a person's religious or other convictions, as in Rock climbing with a new, inexperienced partner was a real act of faith. The term is a translation of the Portuguese auto da fé, which referred to the sentencing and execution of heretics (often by burning at the stake) during the Inquisition, when punishing heresy was thought to constitute an assertion of faith. In modern times it is used for more benign circumstances. [Early 1700s]

Common Names:

Name	Pronounced	Usage
AndĚLa	-	Czech
Veda	-	Indian, Telugu, Kannada
Yardena	-	Hebrew
Remiel	-	Judeo-Christian Legend
Rena	['rinə]
Tripp	[trip]