sacred
UK: ˈseɪkrɪd | US: ˈseɪkrɪd
adj. holy, connected with a god or religion
adj. highly valued and respected, often for moral or spiritual reasons
adj. protected by tradition or law from being harmed or violated
sacred = sacre<holy> + ed<adjective suffix>
- sacre (from Latin sacer, meaning "holy, consecrated")
- ed (Old English suffix forming adjectives, indicating state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "sacred" traces back to Latin sacer, which originally denoted something set apart for divine use—whether as holy or accursed (a duality found in ancient Roman religion). Over time, the term merged with Old English -ed to form an adjective describing things imbued with religious or inviolable significance. The concept evolved to encompass both spiritual reverence and secular protections (e.g., "sacred rights").
The temple is a sacred place for worship.
In many cultures, certain animals are considered sacred.
Freedom of speech is a sacred principle in democracies.
She wore a necklace with a sacred symbol.
The ancient texts are kept in a sacred vault.