holy of holies

noun phrase

: the innermost and most sacred chamber of the Jewish tabernacle and temple

Word History

Etymology

translation of Late Latin sanctum sanctorum, translation of Hebrew qōdhesh haq-qŏdhāshīm

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of holy of holies was in 1641

Dictionary Entries Near holy of holies

Holy Office

holy of holies

holy oil

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Cite this Entry

“Holy of holies.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holy%20of%20holies. Accessed 26 Mar. 2023.

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More from Merriam-Webster on holy of holies

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about holy of holies

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