sanskrit

Sanskrit
    n 1: (Hinduism) an ancient language of India (the language of
         the Vedas and of Hinduism); an official language of India
         although it is now used only for religious purposes [syn:
         {Sanskrit}, {Sanskritic language}]
    

Sanskrit \San"skrit\, n. [Skr. Samsk[.r]ta the Sanskrit
   language, literally, the perfect, polished, or classical
   language, fr. samsk[.r]ta prepared, wrought, made, excellent,
   perfect; sam together (akin to E. same) + k[.r]ta made. See
   {Same}, {Create}.] [Written also {Sanscrit}.]
   The ancient language of the Hindoos, long since obsolete in
   vernacular use, but preserved to the present day as the
   literary and sacred dialect of India. It is nearly allied to
   the Persian, and to the principal languages of Europe,
   classical and modern, and by its more perfect preservation of
   the roots and forms of the primitive language from which they
   are all descended, is a most important assistance in
   determining their history and relations. Cf. {Prakrit}, and
   {Veda}.
   [1913 Webster]
    

Sanskrit \San"skrit\, a.
   Of or pertaining to Sanskrit; written in Sanskrit; as, a
   Sanskrit dictionary or inscription.
   [1913 Webster]