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

Improbably, Netanyahu seems to have forgotten the most critical characteristic of the Jewish faith: the sanctity of life. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2025

In the decade following the 1979 Islamic revolution, our education had consisted of little more than ideological sermons about the glory of Islam, the significance of doing prayers in time and the sanctity of Ayatollah Khomeini. —Amir Ahmadi Arian, The Dial, 10 June 2025

Throughout his life, Boelter’s Christian belief in the sanctity of life seemed unwavering. —Dan Barry, Twin Cities, 21 July 2025

Powell himself said it was not permitted under the law, and a choir of Wall Street analysts chirped about the sanctity of the Federal Reserve’s independence. —Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 17 July 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