What does sacrosanct mean?
Sacrosanct describes something regarded as sacred, inviolable, and beyond criticism or alteration. The word frequently appears in formal discussion of institutions, traditions, principles, rights, and procedures, as in “the sacrosanct rules of the organization” or “privacy is sacrosanct.” Although it expresses strong respect or protection, it is also commonly used critically: calling a practice sacrosanct may suggest that its defenders are treating it as untouchable even when reform or discussion would be reasonable. The word comes from Latin, where it originally conveyed a legally or religiously protected status. Its force lies in combining holiness with inviolability. Sacrosanct therefore means more than simply valued or traditional; it implies a status so authoritative that criticism or change is viewed as improper. The term is useful when discussing reverence, institutional rigidity, protected principles, and the difference between preserving something because it is genuinely important and preserving it merely because it has been declared beyond question.
adjectiveSacrosanct means sacred and inviolable, deserving absolute respect or protection. It often describes principles, institutions, or practices that are treated as beyond criticism or change.
- Sacred, inviolable, and deserving absolute respect or protection.
- Figuratively, so firmly established or protected that criticism or change is regarded as unacceptable.
"The committee regarded its traditional procedures as sacrosanct."
"The family regarded its privacy as sacrosanct."
"Several members criticized what they considered the sacrosanct traditions of the institution."
Sacrosanct began as a Roman-law warning label: not merely holy, but inviolable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sacrosanct come from?
Sacrosanct comes from the Latin sacrosanctus, an adjective associated with Roman law and meaning sacred, inviolable, or protected by a solemn oath. It entered English in the early 17th century. Its components relate to Latin sacer, meaning sacred or holy, and sanctus, meaning holy; related English words include sacred, sanctuary, sanctify, and consecrate.
Related word forms
How sacrosanct is actually used
Formal and often critical or ironic. It can imply that something is treated with excessive reverence, rigidity, or protection from legitimate criticism.