Definition

Adjective: - Resembling or characteristic of a saint in virtue, holiness, or benevolence: Possessing or displaying qualities such as exceptional goodness, piety, kindness, or purity, similar to those attributed to a saint.

Usage and Examples

• Describing a person's character or demeanor:
  • Her saintlike patience with the children was admired by everyone.
  • He was known for his saintlike generosity, always helping those in need without seeking reward.
• Describing an expression or action:
  • She greeted each guest with a saintlike smile.
  • Forgiving his enemies was a truly saintlike act.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The term often implies an ideal or near-perfect moral state that is worthy of veneration. It can be used sincerely to express deep admiration or, at times, ironically to suggest someone is being overly or improbably virtuous.
  • Sincere: "His saintlike devotion to his charitable work inspired the whole community."
  • Potentially ironic: "Oh, don't give me that saintlike look; I know you ate the last cookie."

Variants and Related Words

• Saintly (adjective): Very similar in meaning to "saintlike," meaning holy, virtuous, or characteristic of a saint. (e.g., )
• Sainted (adjective): Often used before a noun to mean revered as a saint, especially of a deceased person remembered with great affection and respect. (e.g., )
• Beatific (adjective): Showing great joy and serenity, often in a way that suggests heavenly bliss. (e.g., )
• Angelic (adjective): Resembling an angel in goodness, beauty, or innocence.

Synonyms

• Virtuous
• Holy
• Pious
• Angelical
• Beatific

Antonyms

• Wicked
• Sinful
• Impious
• Depraved

Idiomatic Expressions and Related Phrases

• To have the patience of a saint: An idiom meaning to be extremely patient.
  • You need the patience of a saint to work with such difficult clients.
• A saint's patience: Similar to the above, denoting extreme patience.
  • She handled the endless questions with a saint's patience.

Adjective

1. marked by utter benignity; resembling or befitting an angel or saint
   • angelic beneficence
   • a beatific smile
   • a saintly concern for his fellow men
   • my sainted mother