desecrate
11 synonyms and 1 antonym for desecrate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To treat something sacred with disrespect or damage it in a way that violates its holiness.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use desecrate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
desecrate a grave
desecrate a temple
desecrate a flag
Etymology
Built from de- (reversing or undoing) plus the stem of "consecrate" (to make sacred) — literally "to un-sanctify."
Full origin of desecrate →Frequently asked questions
What does “desecrate” mean?
The word “desecrate” means to treat something sacred with disrespect or damage it in a way that violates its holiness. In plain terms, to disrespect or damage something that people consider holy or sacred.
How do you pronounce “desecrate”?
“Desecrate” is pronounced DEHS-ih-krayt (/ˈdɛs.ɪ.kɹeɪ̯t/ in IPA).
How do you use “desecrate” in a sentence?
Here is “desecrate” used in a sentence: “Vandals desecrated the ancient tombs with spray paint.”
What is another word for “desecrate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “desecrate” include unhallow, corrupt, profanate, profane, profanize and pollute.
What is the opposite of “desecrate”?
The opposite of “desecrate” — its antonyms — is consecrate.
What part of speech is “desecrate”?
“Desecrate” is a verb.
