sanctuary etymology

Etymology of "Sanctuary"

The word "sanctuary" derives from the Latin word "sanctuarium," which in turn originates from the Roman goddess "Sancta," also known as "Sancus."

Meaning and Origin of "Sanctuary"

Roman Origins

In ancient Rome, "Sancta" was the goddess of fidelity, purity, and sanctity. Her name comes from the Latin word "sanctus," meaning "holy" or "sacred." Thus, "sanctuarium" referred to a place that was holy or dedicated to the gods.

Religious Connotations

In Christian tradition, "sanctuary" came to refer to the holiest part of a church, where the altar and reserved sacrament are located. This usage reflects the idea that the church is a place set apart for worship and divine presence.

Figurative Usage

Over time, the term "sanctuary" has expanded to encompass various meanings:

• A safe place, refuge, or asylum where one can seek protection from danger or harm.
• A place of sacredness, holiness, or reverence, such as a temple, shrine, or holy site.
• A protected area designated for conservation or the preservation of wildlife and natural resources.
• A place where individuals can find solace, peace, and respite from the outside world.

Examples of Usage

• "The city provided sanctuary to refugees fleeing war and persecution."
• "The cathedral's sanctuary was adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings."
• "The wildlife sanctuary was a haven for endangered species."
• "She found sanctuary in her garden, where she could escape the stresses of life."

sanctuary relate terms

• saint

  Etymology The word saint comes from the Latin word sanctus which means holy or co

• sacred

  Etymology The word sacred originates from the Latin word sacer which means holy

• sanctum

  Etymology Latin sanctum meaning holy place or shrine Meaning A sacred or holy p

• saint

  Etymology The word saint comes from the Latin word sanctus which means holy or co

• sentry

  Etymology and Origin The word sentry derives from the following linguistic roots Old

• sentinel

  Etymology Middle English sentinal 15th century Old French sentinelle 14th century

• sanctuary

  Etymology of Sanctuary The word sanctuary derives from the Latin word sanctuarium

• refuge

  Etymology The word refuge comes from the Old French word refuige which in turn derives fr

• asylum

  Etymology Greek ἄσυλον ásulos meaning unplundered or inviolable Latin

• inviolable

  Etymology of Inviolable The word inviolable comes from the Latin inviolabilis which

• chapel

  Etymology Chapel is derived from the Old English word capelle likely from the Late La

• Alsatian

• Nemean

  Etymology The name Nemean is derived from the ancient Greek word Νεμέα Neméa

• narthex

  Etymology The word narthex is derived from the Greek word ναρθηξ narthēx m

• choir

  Etymology The word choir comes from the Old French word cuer which in turn comes fro

• church

  Etymology The English word church originates from the Old English word cirice which

• property

  Etymology The word property originates from the Old French word propreté which in