Last week’s most-tacked word was “sacrosanct.” So we did some digging into its origin and uses to uncover a bit more about the word.
Origins
The word sacrosanct is derived from the Latin term "sacro sanctus," which translates to "sacred" and "holy." It was first used in ancient Rome to describe anything that was considered inviolable or beyond reproach due to its sacred or holy nature. This could include religious objects, places, or even people who were deemed untouchable by virtue of their divine status.
The word has evolved over time, and its meaning has broadened to encompass anything that is considered too important or valuable to be interfered with or violated. This can include principles, ideas, or even personal boundaries that are held in high regard by an individual or society.
Common uses and context
The concept of sacrosanct has played a significant role in various religious and spiritual traditions throughout history. For instance, in Hinduism, the cow is considered sacrosanct and is protected from harm as a symbol of abundance and fertility.
The word sacrosanct has been used in legal contexts to describe rights or principles that are considered inviolable and must be respected at all costs. An example of this is the principle of habeas corpus, which protects individuals from unlawful detention and is considered sacrosanct in many legal systems.
Sacrosanct has also been used to describe artistic works and cultural practices that are considered invaluable and must be preserved. For example, the works of William Shakespeare are often regarded as sacrosanct in the world of literature, with many scholars and critics arguing that they should not be altered or adapted in any way.
The word sacrosanct has been used in political discourse to describe policies or principles that are considered non-negotiable and must be upheld at all costs. For example, the right to free speech is often considered sacrosanct in democratic societies and is fiercely defended by proponents of civil liberties.
The term sacrosanct is sometimes used in a more colloquial sense to describe personal boundaries or preferences that are considered non-negotiable. For example, someone might refer to their morning coffee routine as sacrosanct, meaning that it is an essential part of their daily life that cannot be compromised.
Keep on tacking!