The meaning of SAIN is to make the sign of the cross on (oneself).

SAIN definition: to make the sign of the cross on, as for protection against evil influences. See examples of sain used in a sentence.

Oct 16, 2025 · From Middle English (whence also English sain), from Old English, from Latin. Cognate to Scottish Gaelic seun (“a charm”).

sain (seɪn) or saine vb (Ecclesiastical Terms) (tr) archaic to make the sign of the cross over so as to bless or protect from evil or sin [Old English segnian, from Latin signare to sign (with the cross)]

SAIN definition: to make the sign of the cross over so as to bless or protect from evil or sin | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples in American English

There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb sain, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

The term ‘Sain’ (verb) typically means to make the sign of the cross over something or someone, often as a form of blessing or protection. It is a term that holds significance in religious and cultural …

sain (v.) "to cross oneself; to mark or bless with the sign of the cross," Old English segnian, from Latin signare "to sign, mark, distinguish" (in Church Latin and Medieval Latin "to make the sign of the …

sain (sān), v.t. [Archaic.] to make the sign of the cross on, as for protection against evil influences. to bless.

We found 17 dictionaries that define the word sain: General (15 matching dictionaries) sain: Merriam-Webster sain: Collins English Dictionary Sain, sain: Wordnik Sain, sain: Wiktionary