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sanctum

noun

/ˈsæŋktəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sanctum

A sacred or holy place, often reserved for religious worship, contemplation, or ritualistic activities.
"The ancient ruins held a hidden sanctum for worship."

Detailed meaning of sanctum

It signifies an area that is considered inviolable, set apart from the secular world, and dedicated to spiritual or religious purposes. Sanctums can take various forms, such as a secluded room within a temple or church, a sacred grove in nature, or a personal space where one finds solace for reflection and meditation. These spaces are typically regarded with deep reverence and respect, and they are often associated with a sense of tranquility, purity, and divine presence. In a broader sense, "sanctum" can also be used metaphorically to describe a private or protected place or domain where certain activities or ideas are safeguarded and cherished, much like a sacred sanctuary. Overall, "sanctum" conveys the concept of a sacred or hallowed space that is set apart from the ordinary world for spiritual, reflective, or protective purposes.

Example sentences containing sanctum

1. The monks meditated in the peaceful sanctum of the monastery.
2. Her mind was her private sanctum, where ideas blossomed.
3. The cathedral's inner sanctum was a marvel of architecture.
4. In the heart of the forest, a hidden sanctum awaited discovery.
5. The library was a scholar's sanctum, filled with ancient texts.
6. The temple's sanctum was reserved for sacred rituals.

History and etymology of sanctum

The noun 'sanctum' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'sanctus,' which means 'holy' or 'sacred.' In Latin, 'sanctum' was used to describe a sacred or holy place, often reserved for religious worship, contemplation, or ritualistic activities. Such spaces were considered inviolable and dedicated to divine or spiritual purposes. In English, 'sanctum' retains this sense of a sacred or holy place, and it is often used to refer to private or secluded areas where one can find solitude or engage in contemplation. The etymology of 'sanctum' underscores its historical association with sanctity and the reverence and consecration of spaces dedicated to matters of the divine or spiritual significance.

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Further usage examples of sanctum

1. The cave served as a natural sanctum for the hermit.
2. The artist's studio was a sanctum of creativity.
3. The church's sanctum exuded an aura of serenity.
4. The scientist's lab was his scientific sanctum.
5. The mountaintop offered a breathtaking sanctum for reflection.
6. The garden became her personal sanctum for solace.
7. The crypt was a mysterious sanctum beneath the old mansion.
8. The mosque's sanctum echoed with prayers and devotion.
9. The yoga studio was a spiritual sanctum for inner peace.
10. The ancient ruins concealed a hidden sanctum of worship.
11. The chef's kitchen was his culinary sanctum.
12. The forest glade served as a natural sanctum for wildlife.
13. The meditation room was a tranquil sanctum for seekers of peace.
14. The sacred grove was a revered sanctum for the druids.
15. The monk found peace in the sanctum of the temple.
16. She retreated to her personal sanctum to meditate.
17. The sanctuary was considered a sanctum by the followers.
18. The library was his sanctum, a place where he could escape reality.
19. The scientist's laboratory was his sanctum for discovery.
20. The chapel's altar was the holiest part of the sanctum.
21. The cave was the secret sanctum of the tribe.
22. The hermit lived alone in his mountain sanctum.
23. The garden was a sanctum of beauty and tranquility.
24. The theater was his sanctum for creativity and expression.
25. The museum's exhibition hall was a sanctum for art enthusiasts.