holiness

1 of 2

noun

ho·​li·​ness ˈhō-lē-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being holy

—used as a title for various high religious dignitaries

His Holiness the Pope

2

: sanctification sense 2

holiness

2 of 2

adjective

often capitalized

: emphasizing the doctrine of the second blessing

specifically : of or relating to a perfectionist movement arising in U.S. Protestantism in the late 19th century

Synonyms

Noun

• spirituality
• sanctity
• morality
• godliness
• devotion
• prayerfulness
• saintliness
• devoutness

Examples of holiness in a Sentence

Noun

the holiness of this sacred place

known throughout the world for his holiness, the prophet was visited daily by hundreds of pilgrims

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The outer appearances distracted me from the inner holiness. —Rabbi Jack Engel, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2025

However, Christianity honored the holiness of these transgender saints. —Sarah Barringer, The Conversation, 27 May 2025

G‑d’s purpose in creating the world was that all of creation be sanctified, imbuing it with holiness and spirituality. —Rabbi Moishe Kievman, Sun Sentinel, 20 May 2025

Pope Leo’s election has instantly made the rituals of the Vatican feel a touch more familiar to Americans—and perhaps made the idea of holiness feel a touch more attainable. —Christopher Hale, Time, 9 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for holiness

• lowliness

Kids Definition

holiness

noun

ho·​li·​ness

ˈhō-lē-nəs

1

: the quality or state of being holy

2

capitalized

—used as a title for various high religious officials

His Holiness the Pope