Definition

Verb: - To remove sanctification from something; to make something no longer holy, sacred, or consecrated. - To deprive of sacred character or status; to desecrate or profane.

Usage

The verb "unsanctify" describes the act of reversing a state of sanctity. It is a formal and somewhat rare word, typically used in religious, philosophical, or literary contexts to discuss the removal of a holy or consecrated status.

Examples

• The invading army sought to unsanctify the ancient temple by using it as a stable.
• Some argued that the commercial development would effectively unsanctify the historic burial grounds.
• A ceremony cannot unsanctify the space; only a profound violation of its purpose can.

Advanced Usage

• Theological/Philosophical Context: Used in discussions about the nature of sacred spaces or objects, questioning what actions or intentions can truly unsanctify them.
  • The debate centered on whether human error could unsanctify the sacrament.

Variants and Related Words

• Unsanctified (adjective): Not made holy or sacred; not consecrated.
  • They were buried in unsanctified ground.
• Sanctify (verb): The direct opposite, meaning to set apart as or declare holy; consecrate.
• Desecrate (verb): To treat a sacred place or thing with violent disrespect. (A stronger, more common synonym implying violation.)
• Profane (verb): To treat (something sacred) with irreverence or disrespect.

Synonyms

• Desecrate
• Profane
• Deconsecrate
• Defile (in a religious context)

Antonyms

• Sanctify
• Consecrate
• Hallow
• Bless

Verb

1. remove the sanctification from or make unsanctified