‖Au″to–da–fé″ (�), n.; pl.Autos-da-fé (�). [Pg., act of the faith; auto act, fr. L. actus + da of the + fé faith, fr. L. fides.] 1. A judgment of the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal condemning or acquitting persons accused of religious offenses.
2. An execution of such sentence, by the civil power, esp. the burning of a heretic. It was usually held on Sunday, and was made a great public solemnity by impressive forms and ceremonies.
3. A session of the court of Inquisition.