Holy Grail

noun

1
: grail
2
often holy grail : an object or goal that is sought after for its great significance

Examples of Holy Grail in a Sentence

Finding a cure for cancer is the holy grail of medical researchers.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Combining the two would make for a Holy Grail of engine design, but doing so has been problematic. New Atlas, 23 Feb. 2026 By Sarah Khan April 16, 2018 Anthony Bourdain Finds the 'Holy Grail' of Sri Lankan Food in 'Parts Unknown' It's been eight years since Sri Lanka's tumultuous civil war came to a close. Navya Verma, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026 Finding the perfect chocolate chip cookie has been my Holy Grail for years now. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 18 Dec. 2025 Among a certain set of women, finding the perfect pair of travel pants is a Holy Grail. Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 20 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Holy Grail

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Holy Grail was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Holy Grail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Holy%20Grail. Accessed 1 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

Holy Grail

noun
-ˈgrā(ə)l
: the cup or platter which according to legend was used by Christ and was sought after by knights during the Middle Ages

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