adjective
holy
HOH-lee/ˈhoʊli/
Dedicated to the divine and held sacred.
The holy cup stands apart on the altar before kneeling worshippers.
Etymology
Old English halig already meant sacred or consecrated. Its connection with wholeness probably reflects an earlier idea of something that must remain intact and inviolate, though that original meaning is uncertain.
In context
to seeing this place as a holy place, a sacred place.
Creativity as a holy act, creativity as divine grace,
More examples
- The priest blesses holy water for use in worship.
- Many families gather to pray on holy days.
- Pilgrims travel far to visit the holy shrine.
Forms
holy · holier · holiest
holiness noun — The quality of being sacred or divine.
Similar words
- sacred
- Emphasizes religious reverence or protection from ordinary use.
- consecrated
- Specifically describes something formally dedicated through a religious ceremony.