Definition

The act of treating something sacred with disrespect or irreverence.

Example

The profanation of the ancient temple angered the local community.

Conversation

Did you hear about the profanation that happened at the old church?

Yeah, I read about it! It’s really sad to see such disrespect.

I can't believe people would do something like that.

It makes you wonder what drives someone to commit such an act.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Profanation → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning before or in front of) and "fanare" (meaning to show or make known). The word refers to the act of showing disrespect or making something sacred known in a common or irreverent way.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'shown' ('fanare') in a disrespectful way 'before' ('pro-') others — that's what profanation means.

Visually Confused Words