Sacred
/ˈseɪkrɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsDevoted or dedicated to a deity or religious purpose; worthy of religious veneration; extremely important and deserving of respect.
/ˈseɪkrɪd/
Connected with God (or the gods) or dedicated to a religious purpose and so deserving veneration
The church is a sacred place for worship.
💡 Simply: Imagine a place or object that people treat with special respect because it's connected to something holy, like a god or a religious tradition. It's like a super special and important space.
👶 For kids: Something that is sacred is special and important because it has to do with God or something holy.
More Examples
The ancient scrolls held sacred knowledge.
The vows they made were sacred promises.
How It's Used
"The sacred texts of many religions are often considered the most important of all literary works"
"Some objects hold sacred value within a culture, such as ceremonial masks."
Regarded as being of great importance and worthy of respect, often in a personal or emotional sense.
/ˈseɪkrɪd/
Regarded with great respect and reverence.
The treaty established a sacred pact between the two countries.
💡 Simply: Imagine something is super important and special to you, like your favorite toy from childhood or a cherished memory. You would treat this with special care, much like something sacred.
👶 For kids: Something sacred is super, super special and important to you, like your favorite toy or a special memory.
More Examples
The artist held the creative process sacred.
Their family traditions were considered sacred.
How It's Used
"For many, the time with family during the holidays is considered sacred."
"The memory of her late mother was sacred to her."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Sacred cow
A person, custom, or thing that is immune from criticism or questioning, especially one that is traditionally held in high regard.
"The company's marketing strategy was a sacred cow; no one dared to challenge it."
From Latin *sacer* meaning 'holy, consecrated'. It evolved through Old French into Middle English, signifying something connected with religion or dedicated to a deity.
The word 'sacred' has been used for centuries to denote a religious significance. In older texts, it frequently appeared in contexts related to vows, holy places, and divine figures.
Memory tip
Think of a temple or a place of worship, which is *sacred*.
Word Origin
"holy, consecrated"