sanctity

noun

sanc·​ti·​ty ˈsaŋ(k)-tə-tē 

plural sanctities

1

: holiness of life and character : godliness

2

a

: the quality or state of being holy or sacred : inviolability

b

sanctities plural : sacred objects, obligations, or rights

Synonyms

• blessedness
• devoutness
• godliness
• holiness
• piety
• piousness
• sainthood
• saintliness
• saintship

Examples of sanctity in a Sentence

the sanctity of the elderly nun shone through in her every word and gesture

Recent Examples on the Web

These modules—there are at least five of them—involve feelings like empathy for the vulnerable, resentment of cheaters, respect for authority, regard for sanctity, and anger at betrayal. —Elizabeth Kolbert, The New Yorker, 13 Jan. 2025

The sanctity of the home, or the overall moral health of society—not to mention the 37 Americans who die in drunk-driving crashes every day—appears to be less of a concern. —Shayla Love, The Atlantic, 13 Jan. 2025

Islam condemns all forms of violence and upholds the sanctity of life. —Letters To The Editor, Orlando Sentinel, 9 Jan. 2025

In response, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the case, said that a sentencing before inauguration would preserve the sanctity of the jury's verdict and the law. —Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English saunctite, from Anglo-French sainteté, from Latin sanctitat-, sanctitas, from sanctus sacred

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sanctity

noun

sanc·​ti·​ty ˈsaŋ(k)-tət-ē 

plural sanctities

1

: holiness sense 1, saintliness

2

: the quality or state of being holy or sacred