Definition

A type of biography that praises and idealizes its subject, often focusing on the lives of saints or revered individuals.

Example

The hagiography of the saint highlighted his miraculous deeds and virtuous life.

Conversation

Have you ever read a hagiography before?

No, I haven't. What exactly is it about?

It's basically a biography that idealizes someone's life, often saints or venerated figures.

That sounds interesting! I might look for one to read.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hagiography is formed from "hagio-" (from Greek "hagios", meaning holy or saint) and "-graphy" (from Greek "grapho", meaning to write). The term refers to the writing of the lives of saints or holy figures.

Memory Tip

Think of 'holy' ('hagios') and 'writing' ('graphy') to remember that hagiography is the writing about the lives of saints.

Visually Confused Words