Hagiographal is spelled /ˌhæɡiˈɑːɡrəfəl/, with the stress on the third syllable. It is an adjective used to describe writing that glorifies certain people or events, particularly in a religious context. The word is derived from the Greek word hagios, meaning "sacred" or "holy," and graphein, meaning "to write." The spelling of hagiographal can be challenging for those who are not familiar with the word, but with practice, it can become easier to spell correctly.
Hagiographal is an adjective that pertains to or relates to hagiography. Hagiography is the written or documented account of the lives of saints or religious figures, typically portraying them in a highly favorable and often legendary manner.
The term "hagiographal" is derived from the Greek roots "hagios" meaning holy or sacred, and "graph" meaning writing. When applied to literature, art, or other forms of expression, hagiographal refers to the style, content, or nature of these works that center around religious figures, saints, or martyrs.
In hagiographal accounts, saints are often depicted as heroic, virtuous, and divinely inspired individuals, highlighting their exemplary qualities and their devotion to religious beliefs. These narratives frequently include miraculous or supernatural events attributed to the subject, aiming to inspire and reinforce faith in the reader or viewer.
Although hagiographal works are typically associated with religious contexts, they can also extend to other historical figures who have achieved elevated status or reverence in societies, such as political leaders or national heroes.
As an adjective, hagiographal is often used to describe artistic representations, texts, or literary genres that embody the characteristics of hagiography. It serves as a descriptor denoting the specific subject matter or thematic elements related to the lives of saints or figures considered sacred within a particular religious or cultural tradition.
Pert. to the sacred writings.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hagiographal" is derived from the term "hagiography", which comes from the Greek words "hagios" meaning "holy" and "graphia" meaning "writing" or "description". Hagiography refers to the study or writing of the lives of saints or other religious figures. The suffix "-al" is added to form the adjective "hagiographal", which describes something relating to or characteristic of hagiography.