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Definition of defilement

defilement

/dɪˈfaɪlmənt/
de · file · ment
Plural:defilements
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defilement Lexical Profile

defilement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The violation, dishonoring, or profaning of something regarded as sacred, pure, or worthy of respect.

Example

"The ancient community viewed any unauthorized entry into the inner sanctuary as a grave defilement of the temple."

2

The act of making something physically foul, dirty, or impure, or the state of being polluted.

Example

"Strict environmental regulations were enacted to prevent the defilement of the mountain streams by industrial waste."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for defilement

• Nearby Words

deficit
defier
defile
defilement
defiler
definable
definably

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the verb 'defile' and the suffix '-ment'. The verb 'defile' arose from a blend of Old French 'defouler' (to trample down or violate) and Old English 'fylan' (to make foul or dirty).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Defilement. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/defilement
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