desecrate

Desecrate is a verb meaning to treat a sacred place or object with disrespect or to violate the sacredness of something regarded as holy. It can also refer to profaning or defiling something held in reverence, and the term is commonly used for acts against religious spaces, artifacts, or symbols.

Etymology: The word derives from French desecrer, from Latin sacrare “to make sacred” with de- indicating removal or negation. The English form appeared in the early modern period; the noun desecration and the adjective desecrated are derived from the same root.

Usage and scope: In religious contexts, desecration describes acts that deliberately violate what is considered sacred, such as vandalizing churches, desecrating graves, or mishandling relics. The term can also be used figuratively to denote contempt for important ideals, memories, or cultural symbols.

Legal and social context: Definitions and penalties for desecration vary by jurisdiction. Some legal systems treat it as a crime against property, a hate crime, or an offense against religious freedom, while others use broader terms like sacrilege or profanation. Cultural sensitivities influence how acts are judged and described.

Related terms: Sacrilege, profanation, blasphemy; opposite concept is consecration or sanctification.