odour of sanctity

noun

1. derogatory.
   sanctimoniousness

Word History and Origins

Origin of odour of sanctity¹

C18: originally, the sweet smell said to be exhaled by the bodies of dead saints

Example Sentences

But in spite of her flippant speeches, Louise was respected by all who knew her, adored in her own convent, and died in the odour of sanctity, attesting to the end her staunch adherence to the Jacobite cause.

From Project Gutenberg

From now on to the end of the book the reformed Lucius lives in the odour of sanctity.

From Project Gutenberg

The most distinguished individuals in the land attended upon them with the utmost humility; and Robert, King of France, used to wash and kiss their filthy feet to keep himself in odour of sanctity.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps the expression, so frequently found in the lives of the saints, “who die in odour of sanctity,” may be referred to a belief that this peculiar gift was granted to beatitude.

From Project Gutenberg

If it is difficult to credit the legend that traces the King's death to an act of impiety, it is also hard to believe that he died in the odour of sanctity.

From Project Gutenberg