sainted
UK[ˈseɪntɪd]US[ˈseɪntɪd]
adj
formally recognized as a saint; canonized.
adj
(of a person) regarded as being very virtuous, kind, or patient.
Morpheme Breakdown
saint
ed
saint
ed
Etymology
the word "sainted" is built upon the noun "saint," which entered english via old french from the latin 'sanctus', meaning 'holy' or 'consecrated.' the latin term itself derives from the verb 'sancire,' meaning 'to consecrate,' which is of proto-indo-european origin, related to concepts of making sacred. the english adjectival suffix "-ed," used to form past participles and subsequently adjectives indicating possession of a quality, was attached to "saint." thus, the literal construction "made holy" or "having the quality of a saint" evolved into its modern meanings, referring either to the formal status of canonization or, more figuratively, to a person of exceptional virtue.
Analysis
Structure: saint + ed
saint (from latin 'sanctus', meaning holy, consecrated; functional role: root/base) + ed (from old english '-ed', '-od', past participle suffix; functional role: suffix forming adjectives)
Examples
the sainted figures are often depicted in the stained glass windows of the cathedral.
she was remembered by all as a sainted woman who dedicated her life to charity.
in his eyes, his sainted mother could do no wrong.