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 of sanctum

• shrine
• sanctuary

Examples of sanctum in a Sentence

Her office was her sanctum.

the sanctum of a church

Recent Examples on the Web

There is a little circle on one side of the sanctum cleanser. — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2026

Make your bedroom a sanctum by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 28 Jan. 2026

Visits to the studio sanctum are by invitation only, though. — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026

Yazid had never before penetrated the sanctum beyond the living room. — Daniyal Mueenuddin, New Yorker, 23 Nov. 2025

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