archsaint
|arch-saint|
🇺🇸
/ˈɑrtʃseɪnt/
🇬🇧
/ˈɑːtʃseɪnt/
chief saint
Etymology
'archsaint' is formed in Modern English from the prefix 'arch-' (from Greek 'arkhós', meaning 'chief' or 'principal') + 'saint' (from Old French/Latin 'saint, sanctus', meaning 'holy').
'arch-' entered English via Old French and Medieval Latin compounds meaning 'chief' and was attached to English 'saint' (from Old French 'sint' / Latin 'sanctus'), producing the compound 'archsaint' in modern English usage.
Initially a straightforward compound meaning 'chief saint' (a foremost holy figure); it has also developed an ironic/figurative sense meaning someone who presents themselves as excessively virtuous.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a principal or foremost saint (a saint regarded as chief among saints).
The cathedral held a procession to honor the archsaint of the region.
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Antonyms
Noun 2
(often ironic) A person considered or presenting themselves as supremely virtuous or morally superior.
He acts like an archsaint, always lecturing others while ignoring his own faults.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/08 19:42