enshrine
UK[ɪnˈʃraɪn]US[ɪnˈʃraɪn]
v
to preserve or protect something, such as a right or tradition, in a formal and lasting way, especially by placing it in a law or document.
v
to place or enclose something in or as if in a shrine.
Morpheme Breakdown
en
shrine
en
in, into, to put into a certain state
shrine
case, chest for books or papers
Etymology
the word 'enshrine' is a compound formed from the prefix 'en-' and the noun 'shrine'. the prefix 'en-', of latin origin via french, carries the meaning "to put into" or "to make into". the core noun 'shrine' has a journey from latin 'scrīnium', a box for holding scrolls or relics, through old english, to denote a sacred container or place housing venerated objects. the verb 'enshrine' literally meant "to place in a shrine," a physical act of sanctification. over time, its meaning broadened through metaphorical extension to the abstract legal and social realm, where principles, rights, or memories are accorded the highest respect and permanent protection, as if placed within a sacred repository.
Analysis
Structure: en + shrine
en: from old french, ultimately from latin 'in-', meaning "in, into, to put into a certain state". a prefix used to form verbs.
shrine: from old english 'scrīn', from latin 'scrīnium' meaning "case, chest for books or papers". a noun referring to a sacred place.
Examples
the right to free speech is enshrined in the constitution.
the museum enshrines the artifacts of a lost civilization.
their love for each other was enshrined in their family traditions.