sanctity
UK: ˈsæŋktəti | US: ˈsæŋktəti
n. the state or quality of being holy, sacred, or morally pure
n. the inviolable integrity of something revered (e.g., "the sanctity of marriage")
sanctity = sanct<holy> + ity<noun suffix>
- sanct: From Latin sanctus (holy, consecrated), derived from sancire (to make sacred). Retains the core meaning of sacredness or moral purity.
- ity: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -itas, indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin sanctitas, combining sanctus (holy) with the abstract noun suffix -itas. It entered Middle English via Old French sainteté, reflecting the medieval focus on spiritual purity. The morpheme sanct persists in related words like sanctify and sanctuary, consistently conveying reverence or sacredness. The suffix -ity systematically transforms adjectives into nouns (e.g., purity, equality), here framing holiness as an abstract quality.
The sanctity of the ancient temple was respected by all visitors.
Many cultures emphasize the sanctity of human life.
The ceremony upheld the sanctity of tradition.
Violating the sanctity of the oath had severe consequences.
Environmentalists argue for the sanctity of natural ecosystems.