Unfrock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unfrock
[ʌnˈfrɒk ]
Definition
remove cloth
To unfrock means to remove the frock or ecclesiastical clothing from a clergyman, often as a form of demotion or dismissal from office. The term can also imply the removal of privileges associated with a religious leader.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The scandal led the church to unfrock the priest.
- In some cases, officials decided to unfrock the bishop due to his actions.
- The committee voted to unfrock the minister after the investigation.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Historically, unfrocking was a common practice in various religious institutions as a disciplinary measure.
- In the Catholic Church, unfrocking has been part of addressing misconduct by clergy members.
- The practice dates back several centuries, emphasizing accountability and moral standards within religious communities.
Legal Implications
- Unfrocking may also refer to civil or ecclesiastical legal procedures removing a person from a specific role.
- In some cases, it can be related to legal consequences, following a criminal conviction.
Pop Culture
- The concept of unfrocking appears in various media, often symbolizing disgrace or moral failure.
- Some films and TV shows depict characters who face unfrocking, showcasing the fallout of their actions.
Psychology
- Being unfrocked can have significant psychological effects, such as feelings of shame, loss of identity, and social stigma.
- The process is often linked with discussions about accountability, authority, and personal morals.
Origin of 'unfrock'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'unfrock' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'reverse' and 'frock', which refers to a religious robe.
- The word originated from the practice of removing a priest's frock or robe to signify their removal from office.
The word 'unfrock' is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'the opposite of' and 'frock' which has its origins from the Old French word 'froque', meaning a coat or garment. The use of 'frock' in English dates back to the 14th century when it referred to a loose outer garment worn by men. Over time, 'frock' became associated specifically with the ecclesiastical clothing worn by clergy members. The word 'unfrock' began to see usage in the late 19th century, particularly in contexts regarding the church, as a way of denoting the process of stripping a clergy member of their robes and authority. This action often followed scandalous behavior or a loss of moral standing, making 'unfrock' indicative of both the physical removal of garments as well as the removal of religious status.