Sacrilegious person Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😱
Add to dictionary

sacrilegious person

[ˌsækrɪˈlɪdʒəs pɜːrsən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

someone who shows disrespect for something sacred

A sacrilegious person is someone who intentionally desecrates or shows disrespect towards something considered sacred or holy. This could include acts such as blasphemy, defilement of religious objects, or mocking religious practices.

Synonyms

blasphemer, desecrator, profaner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sacrilegious person

A general term for someone who shows a lack of respect for sacred things or religious beliefs.

  • People were outraged when the sacrilegious person defaced the statue in the cathedral
blasphemer

Used specifically when someone speaks or acts against religious beliefs or God, typically in a way that is considered offensive.

  • The preacher denounced the blasphemer for his irreverent comments about the sacred texts
profaner

Used for someone who treats sacred things with disrespect, often through inappropriate actions or language, sometimes in a broader sense than just religious aspects.

  • The profaner was known for his disruptive behavior during religious ceremonies
desecrator

Refers to someone who damages or violates something sacred or held in high regard, usually physically.

  • The temple was vandalized, and the desecrator was caught on security cameras

Examples of usage

  • His actions were seen as sacrilegious by the devout followers of the religion.
  • She was accused of being a sacrilegious person for her irreverent behavior in the church.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'sacrilegious person'

The word 'sacrilegious' originated from the Latin word 'sacrilegium', which means 'theft of sacred things'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe actions or behaviors that show disrespect towards sacred or holy things.