Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Resembling or befitting a saint; having the qualities of a saint: This is the primary meaning. It describes a person, their character, or their actions as being exceptionally good, morally pure, pious, or selfless, similar to the qualities attributed to a religious saint.

Usage

The adjective "saintly" is used to describe a person's nature, behavior, or appearance that suggests exceptional virtue. It often implies a degree of goodness that seems almost perfect or otherworldly. * It is commonly used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb). * It carries a very positive connotation, but can sometimes be used ironically or sarcastically to imply someone is being overly or self-righteously good.

Examples

• Attributive use:
  • She was known throughout the village for her saintly patience.
  • He has a saintly devotion to helping the poor.
• Predicative use:
  • Despite the provocation, her response was saintly.
  • My grandmother was a truly saintly woman.

Advanced Usage

• "saintly aura/glow": Refers to a perceived radiance or impression of goodness surrounding a person.
  • The old monk had a saintly aura that put everyone at ease.
• Used with irony/sarcasm:
  • Oh, don't give me that saintly look; I know you ate the last cookie.

Variants and Related Words

• Saint (n): A person recognized as having an exceptional degree of holiness or likeness to a divine figure.
• Saintliness (n): The quality or state of being saintly.
  • Her saintliness was an inspiration to all who knew her.
• Sainted (adj): Often used humorously or affectionately to describe a deceased person remembered as being very good.
  • My sainted aunt always told me to be kind.

Synonyms

• Angelic: Resembling an angel in goodness, purity, or beauty.
• Virtuous: Having or showing high moral standards.
• Pious: Devoutly religious.
• Beatific: Showing great happiness and peace, often in a saintly way.
• Holy: Dedicated to a religious purpose; sacred.

Antonyms

• Wicked: Evil or morally wrong.
• Sinful: Characterized by or full of sin.
• Depraved: Morally corrupt; wicked.
• Impious: Not showing respect or reverence for God.

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