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

• holiness
• spirituality

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

The designer’s namesake label delved into his passion for denim and also the sanctity of water. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 12 Sep. 2025

The existential gripes from older generations about the sanctity of live show experiences seem to misunderstand the moment. —Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 9 Sep. 2025

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Republicans used to stand for restraint and order, devoted to the sanctity of markets and the stability of institutions. —Dan Perry, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

In this realization of sanctity and wisdom, de León establishes a link to the Song of Songs and suggests that even those who are empty are filled with the commandments, like the pomegranate. —Demir Alp, JSTOR Daily, 29 Aug. 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