Unfrocked: meaning, definitions and examples
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unfrocked
[ ʌnˈfrɒkd ]
religious context
To unfrock means to remove a priest or a minister from their clerical position or office. This is often done due to misconduct or failure to meet the standards expected of such a role. The act of unfrocking signifies a formal stripping of clerical authority, which can have serious implications for the individual’s spiritual and professional life. It can be seen as a disciplinary measure, reflecting a significant breach of trust within the religious community.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The bishop decided to unfrock the priest after the allegations.
- Many were shocked when the pastor was unfrocked for fraudulent activities.
- Lawsuits led to the unfrocking of the minister.
- The church has strict procedures for unfrocking members who violate its codes.
Translations
Translations of the word "unfrocked" in other languages:
🇵🇹 despojado
🇮🇳 निष्कासित
🇩🇪 entkleidet
🇮🇩 dilepaskan
🇺🇦 розпущений
🇵🇱 zdjęty z urzędowania
🇯🇵 解任された
🇫🇷 déchu
🇪🇸 despojado
🇹🇷 azledilmiş
🇰🇷 직위 해제된
🇸🇦 مفصول
🇨🇿 zbavený
🇸🇰 zbavený
🇨🇳 剥夺神职的
🇸🇮 razporejen
🇮🇸 afklædd
🇰🇿 дін қызметінен айырылған
🇬🇪 დაკარგული სტატუსი
🇦🇿 vəzifədən azad edilmiş
🇲🇽 despojado
Etymology
The term 'unfrock' originates from the late Middle Ages, where it was derived from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'to reverse' or 'remove,' combined with 'frock,' which refers to a robe or garment worn by clergy. The use of 'frock' itself can be traced back to Old French, where 'froc' referred to a garment or cloak. Essentially, 'unfrocking' implies taking away the sacred garments that designate someone as a member of the clergy. It has been chiefly associated with disciplinary actions within the Christian Church, reflecting how seriously religious institutions view the role and conduct of their ministers. Over time, its usage has expanded beyond religion, although the main connotation remains tied to the concept of revoking someone's professional or formal status. Historically, the act not only affects the individual’s career but also has repercussions on their reputation and the community’s trust in the institution.