Definition of the word holy

The word "holy" has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The Old English word "hālie" was derived from the Germanic word "*hailiz", which is also related to the Proto-Germanic "*hailjaz" and the Proto-Indo-European "*kil-" meaning "whole" or "intact". This ultimate connection is thought to evoke the idea of something being whole, complete, and untouched by imperfection or defilement. In Christian contexts, the concept of holiness referred to the sacred nature of God, sacred rituals, and spiritual purity. Over time, the word "holy" has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including reverent, sacred, and divine. Today, "holy" is used to describe things that are considered sacred, revered, or divine, and holds significant cultural, religious, and linguistic significance.