sanctify

/ˌsæŋ(k)təˈfaɪ/

Other forms: sanctified; sanctifying; sanctifies

To sanctify something is to make it pure or holy. You might see a priest sanctify a church in your neighborhood — that means it’s holy.

Sanctify often has a religious connotation. If you get married, you might have a religious ceremony to sanctify your union. That means the marriage is viewed as legitimate according to your religion. Sanctify can also mean that something is made free from sin, like when the Pope sanctifies a person. Or you can use it for anything that’s made right or acceptable. Your mom’s support may sanctify the odd outfit you wore to the family reunion. Thanks, Mom!

Definitions of sanctify

1. verb

   render holy by means of religious rites
   synonyms: bless, consecrate, hallow

   types:

   reconsecrate

   consecrate anew, as after a desecration

   type of:

   declare

   state emphatically and authoritatively
2. verb

   make pure or free from sin or guilt
   synonyms: purge, purify

   types:

   spiritualise, spiritualize

   purify from the corrupting influences of the world

   lustrate

   purify by means of a ritual; also used in post-Communist countries to refer to the political cleansing of former officials

   type of:

   alter, change, modify

   cause to change; make different; cause a transformation