C1noun2K

Saint

UK /["/seɪnt//snt/"]/US /["/seɪnt/"]/

Definition

a person that the Christian Church recognizes as being very holy, because of the way they have lived or died

In simple words: A holy person recognized for their goodness.

Examples

  • St John
  • St Valentine’s Day
  • The children were all named after saints.
  • She's a saint to go on living with that man.
  • His behaviour would try **the patience of a saint**.

Usage notes

Used in religious contexts, often to refer to someone officially recognized by a church. It's not commonly used in everyday conversation outside of religious discussion.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'holy saint', like a superhero with a halo!

Collocations

  • patron
  • Buddhist
  • Catholic
  • canonize
  • venerate
  • become

Synonyms

  • holy person
  • martyr
  • blessed one
  • divine figure

Antonyms

  • sinner
  • villain
  • wrongdoer

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'satan', which has an opposite meaning.
  • Used as an adjective without proper context (e.g., saying 'saint person' instead of just 'saint').