Definition

To take away someone's innocence or purity, often used in a context related to losing virginity.

Example

The story described how the character was deflowered by a stranger.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was reading a book where the main character felt like he had to deflower the land before he could start anew.

That sounds intense! What do you mean by that exactly?

I think it means he wanted to remove everything that was beautiful to make way for something different.

Got it! It's a strong way to describe change, for sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deflower is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "flower" (from Old French *flor*, meaning flower). The word originally refers to the act of taking away the flower, symbolically representing the loss of purity or virginity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'flower' — that's why deflower means to remove purity or virginity.

Visually Confused Words