sanity

noun

san·​i·​ty ˈsa-nə-tē How to pronounce sanity (audio)
: the quality or state of being sane
especially : soundness or health of mind

Examples of sanity in a Sentence

People have begun to doubt his sanity. She is the mother of six children but somehow keeps her sanity. The sanity of the decision was never in question.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For their own sanity, ballplayers limit their time on the season’s emotional roller-coaster. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 July 2025 But music’s a huge part of it, and being able to make a record parallel to this [show] gave me sanity in my own world. Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2025 These are my go-to genius packing hacks that keep my suitcase light, my outfits sharp, my wallet happier, and my sanity intact. Claire Gallam, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2025 With a retrial date in the guilt phase still to be determined, the sanity phase may be months away. Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sanity

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sanite, from Anglo-French sanité, from Latin sanitat-, sanitas health, sanity, from sanus healthy, sane

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sanity was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sanity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sanity. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sanity

noun
san·​i·​ty ˈsan-ət-ē How to pronounce sanity (audio)
: the quality or state of being sane

Medical Definition

sanity

noun
san·​i·​ty ˈsan-ət-ē How to pronounce sanity (audio)
plural sanities
: the quality or state of being sane
especially : soundness or health of mind

Legal Definition

sanity

noun
san·​i·​ty
: the quality or state of being sane compare insanity

More from Merriam-Webster on sanity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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