Definition

Noun: - A supposed midnight gathering of witches and sometimes demons, believed to be held for the purposes of practicing witchcraft, sorcery, and engaging in demonic revelry. Historically, this concept was prominent during the medieval and early modern periods in Europe.

Usage

The term is used to describe a specific, legendary event in the folklore of witch-hunts. It is a historical and cultural concept, not a description of real events. - The inquisitor's manual described the witches' sabbath in terrifying detail. - Accused witches were often forced to confess to attending a witches' sabbath.

Advanced Usage

• The concept is often studied as part of the history of superstition, demonology, or the witch-craze in early modern Europe.
• It is a key component in the mythology of witchcraft that was constructed by persecutors.

Variants and Related Words

• Sabbat: An alternative spelling, often used in academic and historical texts.
• Black Sabbath: A related term, sometimes used interchangeably or to refer to a particularly significant gathering.

Synonyms

• Witches' gathering
• Diabolical meeting
• (The) Sabbat

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To be accused of attending the witches' sabbath: A historical phrase meaning to be charged with the crime of witchcraft.
  • During the trials, many were accused of attending the witches' sabbath on the heath.

Noun

1. a midnight meeting of witches to practice witchcraft and sorcery; in the Middle Ages it was supposed to be a demonic orgy