saintlike
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- 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