Sacrilegious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing actions or behaviors that show great disrespect towards something considered sacred or holy.

• His act of vandalizing the church was considered sacrilegious
• Wearing a Halloween costume in a consecrated cemetery was seen as a sacrilegious act

Best used when referring to speech or actions that insult or show contempt for religious beliefs or deities. It often carries a strong sense of offense.

• Her remarks about the religious ceremony were deemed blasphemous
• Writing offensive graffiti on a temple wall is both illegal and blasphemous

Refers to language or actions that are disrespectful towards religious or holy things, but can also imply general vulgarity or offensiveness.

• Using profane language in the church is unacceptable
• The song's lyrics were so profane that they had to be censored

Commonly used to describe a lack of respect, often in a humorous or casual way, towards things that are normally taken seriously or are respected.

• His irreverent jokes about the serious topic made everyone uncomfortable
• The comedian's irreverent take on political leaders drew mixed reactions

Duplicate entry. Refer to the first listing for context and examples.

Common misspelling of 'sacrilegious'. Not considered a standard word in English.

Describes a lack of proper respect or reverence towards the divine or religious practices, often implying moral wrongdoing.

• His impious remarks about the church upset many people.
• Leading an impious life, he never engaged in any religious ceremonies.

Refers to a general indifference or lack of concern for religion and religious practices, without necessarily being disrespectful.

• She was raised in an irreligious household and did not attend church.
• His irreligious attitude meant he never partook in any religious festivals.