Definition

To treat something sacred with disrespect or to damage it.

Example

The vandals desecrated the ancient temple by spray painting on its walls.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the vandal who tried to desecrate the old church?

Yeah, that was really shocking! It's such a historic place.

I can't believe someone would want to desecrate something so beautiful.

Exactly! We need to protect our cultural heritage.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Desecrate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "sacrare" (from Latin, meaning to make sacred). The word describes the act of taking something sacred and treating it with disrespect or removing its sacred status.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'sacredness' ('sacrare') from something — that's why desecrate means to treat something sacred with disrespect.

Visually Confused Words