sanctum

noun

sanc·​tum ˈsaŋ(k)-təm 

plural sanctums also sancta ˈsaŋ(k)-tə 

1

: a sacred place

2

: a place where one is free from intrusion

an editor's sanctum

the inner sanctums of research

Synonyms

• sanctuary
• shrine

Examples of sanctum in a Sentence

Her office was her sanctum.

the sanctum of a church

Recent Examples on the Web

But the maestro was powerless to stifle a burst of gratitude and relief, a communal exhalation, prompted by music, that could only take place in the sanctum of a concert hall. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 16 Oct. 2024

And then there were the Satanists — who welcomed him into their sanctum without judgment. —Alex Bhattacharji, Rolling Stone, 4 Aug. 2024

Tehran is taking its time to reveal how, yet again, its innermost sanctum was violated by Israel. —Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 31 July 2024

One he’s visibly enhanced … through a path and a way on display in his sanctum adjoining the cathedral. —Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 2 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Latin, neuter of sanctus sacred

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sanctum

• inner sanctum
• sanctum sanctorum

Kids Definition

sanctum

noun

sanc·​tum ˈsaŋ(k)-təm 

plural sanctums also sancta -tə 

1

: a sacred place

2

: a place where one is free from being bothered