How Do You Spell HOLY?

Pronunciation: [hˈə͡ʊli] (IPA)

The word "holy" is spelled with four letters, and is pronounced /ˈhoʊli/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ho", with the vowel sound given by the diphthong /oʊ/. The second syllable is pronounced as "lee", with the vowel sound represented by the letter "e". The y at the end of the word represents the sound /i/. The word is commonly used to refer to something or someone that is sacred, pure, or divine. The spelling of the word is consistent with English language rules for vowel sounds and their representations.

HOLY Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "holy" is an adjective that signifies a sacred, divine, or sanctified nature. It is used extensively to describe things or individuals deemed to possess a special connection to the divine, ultimate, or supernatural power. Often rooted in religious connotations, "holy" expresses the unique reverence and purity associated with religious beliefs and practices across diverse cultures.

    Typically, the concept of holiness implies a separation from the profane or the worldly and an elevated status beyond the ordinary. It suggests an intrinsic quality of righteousness, goodness, or perfection attributed to a deity, deity-like figures, or sacred entities. As such, "holy" encompasses qualities exemplifying ethical and moral excellence, extraordinary power, or impeccable character.

    Furthermore, "holy" can connote an awe-inspiring or sublime quality, evoking deep admiration, respect, or even fear. It often intertwines with religious rituals, traditions, and artefacts that are designated as holy, representing both a physical manifestation of the divine and a gateway to the spiritual realm.

    While its primary usage remains associated with religious contexts, "holy" can also be employed metaphorically to describe any person, entity, or experience that exudes exceptional purity, goodness, or awe-inspiring attributes. In secular contexts, it may imply a transcendent, extraordinary, or pristine quality, reflecting an elevated standard or ideal to be revered.

    In summary, "holy" denotes the sacred, divine, or sanctified nature of a person, object, or experience, often embodying qualities of purity, righteousness, power, and reverence with connections to religious beliefs, rituals, and traditions.

  2. Good; pious; free from sin and sinful affections; sacred; perfect in a moral sense; consecrated to.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for HOLY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for HOLY

Etymology of HOLY

The word "holy" comes from the Old English word "hālig" or "hāligg", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "hailagaz". This proto-Germanic term is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "kailo" or "kailos", meaning "whole" or "uninjured". The concept of "holiness" originally denoted being untouched or separated from the mundane or profane, and it later took on the meaning of being sacred or consecrated.

Idioms with the word HOLY

  • holy smoke The idiom "holy smoke" is an exclamation of surprise, astonishment, or excitement. It is often used to express a sense of disbelief or amazement at something unexpected or extraordinary.
  • Holy moley! The idiom "Holy moley!" is an exclamation of surprise, astonishment, or enthusiasm. It is used to emphasize a strong reaction to something unexpected or impressive.
  • holy Joe The idiom "holy Joe" refers to a person who is excessively pious, sanctimonious, or excessively religious in a hypocritical or self-righteous manner. It is often used to describe someone who puts on a facade of moral superiority or religious devotion.
  • holy smoke(s) The idiom "holy smoke(s)" is an exclamation of surprise or amazement used to express disbelief or astonishment about something. It is often used colloquially in informal situations.
  • holy of holies The idiom "holy of holies" refers to a place or thing that is regarded as the most sacred or valuable, often within a religious or revered context. It originally comes from the term used in the Bible to describe the inner sanctuary or most sacred part of the Jewish Temple or Tabernacle, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. It generally signifies a place or concept of the utmost sanctity, purity, or importance.
  • holy cow The idiom "holy cow" is an exclamation of surprise or amazement, typically used in a lighthearted or humorous manner. It is often used to express disbelief or astonishment at something unexpected or remarkable.
  • holy fuck "Holy fuck" is an informal and highly vulgar expression that is used to convey extreme surprise, shock, or astonishment. It is an exclamation that may be used when encountering a particularly shocking or unexpected event or situation.
  • Holy mackerel! The idiom "Holy mackerel!" is an exclamation of surprise, astonishment, or excitement. It is often used to express a strong or intense emotion.
  • holy crap The idiom "holy crap" is typically used as a colloquial expression to convey a strong sense of shock, surprise, or astonishment. It is an exclamation used to emphasize the intensity or magnitude of a situation or experience.
  • take holy orders The idiom "take holy orders" refers to the act of becoming a member of the clergy or being ordained as a priest, deacon, or minister in a religious denomination. It involves committing one's life to serving God and the church and typically includes undergoing a formal process of education, training, and dedication.
  • holy crap on a cracker The idiom "holy crap on a cracker" is an expression of surprise or astonishment. It is often used to emphasize the intensity or unexpectedness of a situation or event.
  • the holy of holies The idiom "the holy of holies" refers to the most sacred or revered place, person, or thing within a particular context or system. It originates from the biblical term used to describe the innermost chamber in the ancient Jewish Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. It represents the utmost sanctity and reverence, often associated with the essence, core, or pinnacle of something.
  • a holy terror The idiom "a holy terror" refers to a person or thing that is extremely difficult to control or manage, often due to their intense and chaotic behavior.
  • holy shit The idiom "holy shit" is an exclamation used to express intense surprise, astonishment, or disbelief about something. It is a vulgar expression that can convey strong emotions and is often used in informal or casual conversation.
  • holy crickets The idiom "holy crickets" is an exclamation used to express surprise, astonishment, or disbelief. It is an informal and lighthearted way to convey amazement or shock about something.
  • holy terror The idiom "holy terror" refers to a person or thing that is exceptionally troublesome, disruptive, or mischievous, often causing chaos or fear. It is typically used to describe someone who is unruly, wild, or difficult to control.
  • be in holy orders The idiom "be in holy orders" refers to someone who has been ordained as a member of the clergy in a religious institution, typically referring to ordained priests or ministers. It implies that the person has taken vows and is officially recognized as a religious leader within their faith.
  • holy stink

Similar spelling words for HOLY

Plural form of HOLY is HOLIES

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