holy war

noun

1. a war waged for what is supposed or proclaimed to be a holy purpose, as the defense of faith.

2. any disagreement or argument between fanatical proponents of radically differing beliefs, opinions, etc..

   a holy war on the merits of rival computer operating systems; a holy war about welfare reform.

holy war

noun

1. a war waged in the cause of a religion

Word History and Origins

Origin of holy war¹

First recorded in 1685–95

Example Sentences

“If God ever calls me to a holy war,” he said, “I want Joe Frazier fighting beside me.”

From Los Angeles Times

Noem and her crew are so high on their holy war that they don’t realize they’re their own worst enemy.

From Los Angeles Times

Let’s take a walk around The Battery, so you can understand why it could become one of the flash points in the coming holy war between owners and players.

From Los Angeles Times

The call to “take back” the culture is not metaphorical but literal, and believers are encouraged to see themselves as soldiers in a holy war to dominate society.

From Salon

The head of the Russian Church in Moscow, Patriarch Kirill, has doggedly backed the invasion of Ukraine, calling it a Holy War, and expressing little compassion for its victims.

From BBC