Question

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war.

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate – we can not consecrate – we can not hallow – this ground.

—The Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln

To consecrate means to declare something sacred or holy. What feeling does the word "consecrate" give to the speech?

spiritual
academic
humorous
joyful

Answer 1

The word "consecrate" gives a **spiritual** feeling to the speech. It evokes a sense of reverence and solemnity, emphasizing the sacredness of the ground where fallen soldiers are honored. Lincoln's use of the term underscores the profound significance of the sacrifices made during the war and the respect that should be afforded to those who died in service of their nation.