Saintlier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
saintlier
[หseษชntliษr ]
Definition
moral quality
The term 'saintlier' is a comparative form of the adjective 'saintly', which describes someone who is exceptionally holy or virtuous. It typically refers to individuals who exhibit greater piety or moral integrity than others. In religious contexts, being saintly relates to embodying the qualities of a saint, such as compassion, selflessness, and spiritual devotion. Therefore, 'saintlier' suggests a heightened state of these attributes, often used to describe someone who stands out in their moral excellence among their peers.
Synonyms
more holy, more virtuous, purer.
Examples of usage
- Her actions were saintlier than anyone expected.
- He was considered the saintlier of the two candidates.
- In the community, she became known as the saintlier figure.
- His saintlier nature led him to help those in need.
Translations
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Origin of 'saintlier'
The word 'saintly' originates from the Latin term 'sanctus', meaning 'sacred' or 'holy'. The use of 'saint' in English can be traced back to the Old French 'saint', which in turn derived from the Latin. 'Saint' refers to a person acknowledged as holy or virtuous and typically canonized after death. The suffix '-ly' allows for the formation of adjectives in English, adding the connotation of being characterized by a quality. Thus, 'saintly' emerged as a word denoting characteristics akin to those of a saint. The comparative form 'saintlier' follows standard grammatical rules in English to compare degrees of holiness or virtue among individuals. This comparative structure has been utilized in various religious texts and moral discussions to highlight differences in moral standards and ethical behavior. Its roots reflect a long history of discussing virtue and morality within religious and philosophical contexts.