Definition

A type of literature that focuses on the lives and writings of saints or other venerated figures.

Example

The hagiology of the early church provides insight into the lives of its most revered saints.

Conversation

Have you ever read any books on hagiology?

No, I haven't. What are they about?

They deal with the lives of saints and venerated figures.

That sounds interesting! I’d like to learn more about that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hagiology is formed from "hagio-" (from Greek "hagios", meaning holy or sacred) and "-logy" (from Greek "logia", meaning study or discourse). The word refers to the study of holy persons or saints.

Memory Tip

Think of 'holy' ('hagio-') and 'study' ('-logy') to remember that hagiology is the study of holy figures.

Visually Confused Words