SACRED COW Meaning and
Definition
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A "sacred cow" is a metaphorical expression used to refer to an idea, belief, institution, or custom that is treated as above criticism, questioning, or reform due to its long-standing reputation, importance, or sacred nature. The term originates from the cultural tradition in Hinduism, where the cow is considered a sacred and revered animal and therefore protected from harm or interference.
In a figurative sense, a sacred cow is deemed as untouchable, and any attempt to challenge or question it is met with resistance, hostility, or reluctance to change. It can be a long-established practice, traditional belief, or influential figure that has been immune to criticism or scrutiny due to its perceived significance.
The idea behind the concept of a sacred cow is that it is held so dearly that its influence often prevents any objective analysis or evaluation of its merits. Consequently, it creates resistance to change, as any suggestion of alteration or reconsideration is met with opposition or deemed as sacrilegious.
The term "sacred cow" is commonly used in social, cultural, political, and organizational contexts to describe an inviolable element that is protected from scrutiny, reform, or criticism due to its perceived sacredness, tradition, or importance, often hindering progress or improvement.
Common Misspellings for SACRED COW
- aacred cow
- zacred cow
- xacred cow
- dacred cow
- eacred cow
- wacred cow
- szcred cow
- sscred cow
- swcred cow
- sqcred cow
- saxred cow
- savred cow
- safred cow
- sadred cow
- saceed cow
- sacded cow
- sacfed cow
- sacted cow
- sac5ed cow
Etymology of SACRED COW
The etymology of the phrase "sacred cow" can be traced back to Hinduism, specifically to the religious practice of cattle veneration in ancient India. Within Hinduism, the cow is considered a sacred and revered animal, with a long-standing tradition of protecting and worshiping it. The term "sacred cow" itself originated from this practice.
The exact origin of the phrase in English is believed to date back to the late 19th century, emerging during the time of British colonial rule in India. British officers and administrators in India observed the Hindu worship of cows and began to use the term "sacred cow" to refer to something that was considered immune from criticism or debate, just as the cow was seen as untouchable or inviolable in the Hindu religion.
Idioms with the word SACRED COW
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a sacred cow
The idiom "a sacred cow" refers to a person, institution, belief, or custom that is considered immune to criticism or questioning due to its long-standing or revered status. It implies that such things are considered beyond reproach or inviolable, often discouraging criticism or examination.
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sacred cow
A "sacred cow" is a person, institution, belief, or practice that is regarded as being above criticism or immune to questioning or alteration, often hindering progress or improvement.
Similar spelling words for SACRED COW
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