sacred cow

Definition

Something which cannot be tampered with, or criticized, for fear of public outcry. A person, institution, belief system, etc. which, for no reason other than the demands of established social etiquette or popular opinion, should be accorded respect or reverence, and not touched, handled or examined too closely.

Etymology

Originally American English (early 1900s), a reference to the elevated place of cows in Hinduism.

Example Sentences

• "Many sacred cows were milked dry in an unbelievable series of outrageous events."
• "Irreverence is our only sacred cow."
• "In my opinion, in order to save serious amounts of money, a number of 'sacred cows' will need slaying."