dedicated or consecrated to God or a religious purpose, sacred, deserving great respect and reverence

holy cow, holy grail, holy mackerel

Formal and Informal Expressions of holy

In different contexts, you can replace 'holy' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'sacred, consecrated' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'awesome, amazing' is a commonplace synonym.

holy: Explore its Definition & Usage

holy Definition

1dedicated or consecrated to God or a religious purpose
2sacred, deserving great respect and reverence

Using holy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "holy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The holy book of Islam is the Quran.
Example
The holy city of Jerusalem is sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
Example
The holy water is used in many religious ceremonies.
Example
The holy man spent his life helping others.

holy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for holy

Antonyms for holy

Phrases with holy

holy cow
an exclamation of surprise or astonishment
Example
Holy cow! I can't believe we won the lottery!
holy grail
a goal or object that is highly sought after or difficult to attain
Example
For many scientists, finding a cure for cancer is the holy grail of medical research.
holy mackerel
an exclamation of surprise or amazement
Example
Holy mackerel! That's the biggest fish I've ever seen!

Origins of holy

from Old English 'hālig', meaning 'sacred, consecrated'

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Summary: holy in Brief

The term 'holy' [ˈhoʊli] refers to something dedicated or consecrated to God or a religious purpose, or something that is sacred and deserving of great respect and reverence. It is often used in reference to religious texts, places, and people, as well as in exclamations like 'holy cow' and 'holy mackerel.' 'Holy grail' is an idiom that refers to a highly sought-after goal or object.