Defilement: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something pure or sacred has been spoiled or violated. Often used in religious or ceremonial contexts.

• The defilement of the sacred temple was considered a grave offense.
• The defilement of the ancient tomb shocked the archeological community.

Used when something, often physical matter like food, water, or the environment, has been made impure or harmful by addition of a pollutant or toxin.

• The contamination of the drinking water caused widespread illness.
• Proper handling of food is essential to avoid contamination.

Used when discussing the introduction of harmful substances into the environment, leading to adverse effects on nature and human health. Commonly used in environmental sciences and public policy.

• Air pollution in the city has reached dangerous levels.
• Efforts to reduce ocean pollution are gaining momentum worldwide.

Used specifically for acts that disrespect or violate something holy or very respected. Often has a strong negative connotation and is used in legal or moral contexts.

• The vandalism of the cemetery was an act of desecration.
• There were protests against the desecration of the war memorial.

Use this word to describe the corruption or destruction of something pure, sacred, or revered. It often carries a serious or dramatic tone.

• The vandals were charged with the defilement of the historic statue.
• The ritual was considered a defilement of their sacred traditions.

Impurity is used to indicate the presence of contaminants or the lack of purity in an object, substance, or concept. It is mostly used in a physical or metaphorical sense, often concerning cleanliness or moral integrity.

• The water test revealed a high level of impurity.
• She struggled with feelings of impurity and unworthiness.

This word refers to the act of damaging someone's reputation through false statements. It is commonly used in legal contexts and can involve public statements or published works.

• The celebrity filed a lawsuit for defamation against the tabloid.
• He was concerned that the rumors would lead to defamation of his character.

Use this word when referring to the act of making something impure or spoiled, especially in a spiritual or sacred sense. This term often implies significant damage and is typically very negative.

• The defilement of the sacred temple was an unforgivable act.
• They spoke about the defilement of the innocent minds by violent media.

Use this word when discussing the act of violating or disrespecting something sacred or holy. It has strong negative connotations and implies a profound lack of reverence.

• Vandals desecrated the cemetery with graffiti.
• It's a crime to desecrate religious symbols.

This word is appropriate when discussing the introduction of unwanted substances that make something impure, especially in a physical or chemical context.

• The water supply was contaminated by industrial waste.
• Be careful not to contaminate the food with raw meat.

This term is suitable for describing a slight or moderate contamination that affects the purity of something, which can be both physical or metaphorical.

• There was a rumor that tainted her reputation.
• The meat was found to be tainted with bacteria.