Sacrilege
/ˈsækrɪˌlɛdʒ/noun
The violation or profanation of sacred things.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, sacrilege was not just a moral failing; it was believed to attract divine wrath, leading to dire consequences for entire communities.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sacerdōtes
“A person devoted to sacred rites.”
Latin
Latin
sacrilegus
“One who steals sacred things; a grave offense against the divine.”
Old French
Old French
sacrilege
“The act of violating the sacred; a term adopted in legal contexts regarding offenses against the Church.”
Middle English
Middle English
sacrilege
“An offense against holy things, often used in theological discussions.”
Modern English
English
sacrilege
“The modern term for acts of disrespect towards sacred objects or beliefs.”