enshrine

[ en-shrahyn ]

verb (used with object)

, en·shrined, en·shrin·ing.

1. to enclose in or as in a shrine:

   His love for her is enshrined forever in his poetry.

2. to cherish as sacred:

   The memory of our friendship will be enshrined in my heart.

enshrine

/ ɪnˈʃraɪn /

verb

1. to place or enclose in or as if in a shrine
2. to hold as sacred; cherish; treasure

Derived Forms

• enˈshrinement, noun

Other Words From

• en·shrinement noun
• unen·shrined adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of enshrine¹

First recorded in 1575–85; en- ¹ + shrine

Example Sentences

Seven states — Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and New York — passed ballot measures to enshrine abortion rights or other reproductive rights in the state constitution.

From Salon

As other free states joined the union, several also enshrined this language into their constitutions.

From Los Angeles Times

In the state of Missouri, Amendment 3 passed, which will enshrine the right to an abortion in the state constitution and overturn the state’s current ban.

From Salon

While the treaty itself is not enshrined in law, its principles have been adopted over time into various pieces of legislation.

From BBC

Just last week, California voters formally removed Proposition 8 from the state Constitution and enshrined the right to marry.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cherish
• consecrate
• preserve
• revere