Meaning & use

desecrate

verb·Advanced

Last updated

To treat a sacred place or object with violent disrespect, damaging or defiling it.

See it in a sentence

Vandals desecrated the ancient cemetery by spray-painting the headstones.

The soldiers were court-martialed for desecrating a place of worship.

A note on using this word

Reserved for serious violations of something considered sacred or deeply respected, not ordinary damage or mess.

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