adjective

holy

holy, sacred, pious

This is a holy site for pilgrims.

This is a holy site for pilgrims.

She leads a holy life.

She leads a holy life.

((holy)) ((noun)) holy (noun) This is a holy site.

Synonyms: sacred, divine, blessed; Antonyms: profane, secular

From Old English 'hālig', related to 'hāl' meaning 'whole, health'. The idea is that which is sacred is complete and inviolate.

Think of 'holiday', which was originally a 'holy day'. This connection helps remember the meaning of 'holy'.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.