sanctity

noun

sanc·​ti·​ty ˈsaŋ(k)-tə-tē How to pronounce sanctity (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His vision was driven by the role of innovation, the power of new product introductions, the purity of distribution strategy and the sanctity of brand equity. Pete Born, Footwear News, 15 June 2025 The process, known as the conclave, is one of the most secretive elections in the world, cloistered inside the Sistine Chapel under intense procedural rules designed to preserve the sanctity and security of the decision. Dan Cody, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025 Journalism prevailed for the sanctity of the Triple Crown. Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 17 May 2025 We’re given flowers, cards and brunch menus, while politicians praise the sanctity of family and the nobility of maternal love. Sarah Leonardi, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for sanctity

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of sanctity was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sanctity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sanctity. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sanctity

noun
sanc·​ti·​ty ˈsaŋ(k)-tət-ē How to pronounce sanctity (audio)
plural sanctities
1
2
: the quality or state of being holy or sacred

More from Merriam-Webster on sanctity

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