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Defrocking: meaning, definitions and examples

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defrocking

 

[ dɪˈfrɒkɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious context

Defrocking is the act of removing someone from their position or office, especially in a religious context. This often involves stripping a member of the clergy of their ecclesiastical status due to misconduct or violation of religious laws.

Synonyms

deprive, disgrace, dismissal

Examples of usage

  • The bishop announced the defrocking of the priest after a lengthy investigation.
  • Defrocking can be a painful process for both the individual and the community.
  • The church faced criticism for its handling of the defrocking procedure.

Etymology

The term 'defrocking' originates from the Latin word 'froc', which refers to the articles of clothing worn by clergy members, often indicating their sacred office. The prefix 'de-' meaning 'removal of', coupled with 'frock', suggests a literal stripping away of the religious garments that signify one's ecclesiastical authority. Historically, defrocking has been a formal procedure implemented by various religious institutions to maintain moral standards and accountability within the clergy. As societal values evolve, the process and reasons behind defrocking have also shifted, reflecting changes in both internal church governance and external societal expectations regarding the conduct of religious leaders. Overall, defrocking serves as a significant action within religious communities, symbolizing both a form of punishment and a mechanism for upholding integrity within the faith.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,887, 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.