saint
UK: seɪnt | US: seɪnt
n. a person recognized as holy or virtuous, typically by a religious institution
n. an exceptionally kind or morally upright person
vt. to formally recognize someone as a saint
The word "saint" traces back to the Latin sanctus, meaning "holy" or "consecrated." It entered Old French as saint and was later adopted into Middle English, retaining its core meaning of moral or spiritual purity. The term originally described individuals canonized by the Christian church but broadened to include anyone of exceptional virtue. The spelling and pronunciation remained remarkably stable across languages, reflecting its sacred and unchanging cultural significance.
Joan of Arc was declared a saint by the Catholic Church.
My grandmother was a true saint, always helping others.
The village celebrates its patron saint every year.
He lived like a saint, avoiding all vices.
The church decided to saint the martyred missionary.