Defrock: meaning, definitions and examples
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defrock
[ dɪˈfrɒk ]
religious context
To defrock someone means to strip a priest or minister of their clerical status and duties, often due to misconduct or violation of religious rules. This action signifies a formal removal from their religious office.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The bishop decided to defrock the priest after the scandal.
- Several ministers were defrocked due to their involvement in illegal activities.
- The church council voted to defrock him following numerous complaints.
legal context
In a broader legal sense, defrock can refer to the act of removing someone from their professional duties or titles. This is typically associated with severe violations of conduct or ethics.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The organization decided to defrock the member after the breach of conduct.
- He was defrocked from the position due to fraud allegations.
- The committee moved to defrock the official for inappropriate behavior.
Translations
Translations of the word "defrock" in other languages:
🇵🇹 despir
🇮🇳 धार्मिक पद से वंचित करना
🇩🇪 entkleiden
🇮🇩 melepaskan jubah
🇺🇦 позбавити сану
🇵🇱 zdejmować sutannę
🇯🇵 剥奪する
🇫🇷 démettre
🇪🇸 despojar
🇹🇷 rahiplikten almak
🇰🇷 사제직에서 해임하다
🇸🇦 فصل من الخدمة
🇨🇿 zbavit kněžství
🇸🇰 zbaviť kňazstva
🇨🇳 解除神职
🇸🇮 odstraniti z duhovniške službe
🇮🇸 afklæðast
🇰🇿 дін қызметінен босату
🇬🇪 წმინდა მსახურებიდან ჩამოწერა
🇦🇿 kilsə xidmətindən azad etmək
🇲🇽 despojar
Etymology
The word 'defrock' originates from the late 19th century, combining the prefix 'de-' meaning 'down from' or 'removal of', with 'frock', which relates to a ceremonial robe or clerical clothing worn by priests. It emerged during a time of increasing accountability within religious establishments, particularly in the Christian context, where clerics had to adhere to moral and ethical standards. The term effectively signifies the act of removing the sacred vestments and responsibilities from a religious figure, often highlighting significant breaches of conduct that warranted such a drastic action. Defrocking is a practice that underscores the seriousness with which religious organizations view their leaders' behaviors, ensuring that those who fail to meet the expected standards of their office are held accountable.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,086, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.