Holy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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holy

[ˈhəʊli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

religious

regarded as sacred and deserving special respect or reverence.

Synonyms

blessed, divine, sacred, saintly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
holy

Used to describe something that is dedicated to religion or considered sacred in a general sense, often used with places, people, or objects.

  • The holy temple was filled with worshipers
  • She carries a holy book with her all the time
sacred

Usually refers to something that is regarded with great respect and reverence, often having spiritual significance.

  • The sacred texts of the religion are kept in a special place
  • This ground is considered sacred by the local community
divine

Used to describe something that is God-like or coming from a deity, often conveying a sense of supreme goodness or beauty.

  • He felt a divine presence guiding him
  • The artist's work had a divine quality to it
blessed

Often refers to something that has been made holy through a religious ritual or that is considered highly fortunate. Can also be used when expressing gratitude or thankfulness.

  • They received a blessed gift from their grandparents
  • Feel blessed to have such supportive friends
saintly

Describes someone who behaves in an exceptionally moral or virtuous way, often resembling the qualities attributed to saints.

  • Her saintly behavior earned her the respect of everyone
  • He lived a saintly life, always helping those in need

Examples of usage

  • the Holy Bible
  • a holy relic
Context #2 | Adjective

moral

dedicated or consecrated to God or a religious purpose; sacred.

Synonyms

blessed, divine, pure, sacred.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
holy

Used to describe something associated with a deity or religious figure, often with a sense of being revered or sanctified.

  • The holy scriptures guide our faith.
  • This temple is a holy place for many believers.
sacred

Used to describe something that is dedicated or set apart for the worship of a deity and deserving of respect and reverence.

  • The sacred text is read by millions around the world.
  • This grove is considered sacred by the local community.
divine

Used to refer to something associated with a god or the heavens; can also mean extremely good or delightful.

  • They believed the king had a divine right to rule.
  • The chocolate cake tasted simply divine.
blessed

Commonly used to describe someone or something that has received divine favor or benefits, often in a positive, grateful sense.

  • She felt blessed to have such a loving family.
  • The house was blessed by the priest.
pure

Usually describes something that is clean, untainted, or morally good; can also refer to something in its original, unaltered state.

  • She has a pure heart, always putting others first.
  • The water here is pure and free from contaminants.

Examples of usage

  • a holy vow
  • holy matrimony
Context #3 | Exclamation

used to express surprise, anger, or admiration.

Examples of usage

  • Holy cow!
  • Holy moly!

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'holy'

The word 'holy' originated from the Old English word 'hālig', meaning 'whole' or 'uninjured'. It has been used in religious contexts to denote something sacred or consecrated. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a broader sense of reverence and purity in various contexts.


See also: holily, holiness, unholiness, unholy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,017, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.