sacred

/'seikrid/

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The word "sacred" is an adjective that describes something that is considered holy, valuable, or worthy of great respect. It often refers to things that are devoted to religious purposes or have special meaning to people.

Simple Explanation:

When we say something is "sacred," we mean that it is very important and should be treated with care. This could be a place, a person, or an object that has a special significance, especially in a religious context.

Usage Instructions:

• "Sacred" is often followed by the word "to" when indicating what the thing is dedicated to (e.g., "sacred to God").
• It can also be used to describe practices or items that are important in a spiritual or religious sense.

Examples:

1. Religious Context: "The church is a sacred place for many people."
2. Personal Importance: "Family time is sacred to her; she never misses dinner with them."
3. Cultural Significance: "The sacred texts of Buddhism are studied by many followers."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or discussions about spirituality, "sacred" can also imply something that transcends the ordinary and connects to deeper, universal truths or values (e.g., "the sacred bond of friendship").

Word Variants:

• Sacredness (noun): The quality of being sacred.
  • Example: "The sacredness of the ceremony was felt by all attendees."
• Sacredly (adverb): In a manner that is sacred.
  • Example: "They treated the ancient artifacts sacredly."

Different Meanings:

• While "sacred" primarily relates to religion, it can also refer to things that are highly respected or cherished in a non-religious context, such as a "sacred tradition" or "sacred values."

Synonyms:

• Holy
• Hallowed
• Consecrated
• Revered
• Esteemed

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "sacred," you might encounter phrases like: - "Sacred ground": Refers to a place that is considered holy or highly respected. - Example: "The battlefield is considered sacred ground for those who fought there." - "Sacred cow": An idea or tradition that is considered untouchable or beyond criticism. - Example: "In some cultures, the cow is a sacred cow, not to be harmed."

Conclusion:

Understanding the word "sacred" helps you appreciate the importance of certain traditions, beliefs, and values in various cultures.

Academic

Adjective

1. (often followed by `to') devoted exclusively to a single use or purpose or person
   • a fund sacred to charity
   • a morning hour sacred to study
   • a private office sacred to the President
2. worthy of religious veneration
   • the sacred name of Jesus
   • Jerusalem's hallowed soil
3. made or declared or believed to be holy; devoted to a deity or some religious ceremony or use
   • a consecrated church
   • the sacred mosque
   • sacred elephants
   • sacred bread and wine
   • sanctified wine
4. worthy of respect or dedication
   • saw motherhood as woman's sacred calling
5. concerned with religion or religious purposes
   • sacred texts
   • sacred rites
   • sacred music

Synonyms

• hallowed
• consecrated
• sanctified