Want to say defile differently? Here are other words for defile and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of defile
The primary meaning of the word "defile" is to make something impure or contaminated.
Etymology of defile
The word "defile" comes from the Old French word "defouler", which means "to trample down" or "to tread underfoot"
This Old French word is derived from the Latin word "de" (meaning "down" or "away") and "fulare" (meaning "to tread" or "to trample")
The word "defile" has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of making something impure or contaminated
Synonyms
desecrate
pollute
contaminate
tarnish
sully
foul
corrupt
debauch
debase
degrade
profane
blaspheme
sacrilege
deface
disfigure
mar
blemish
spoil
ruin
destroy
devastate
ravage
despoil
plunder
pillage
ransack
loot
vandalize
damage
harm
injure
wound
hurt
offend
outrage
insult
affront
violate
transgress
breach
infringe
disobey
disrespect
Definitions
- To make something impure or contaminated, often in a moral or spiritual sense
- * To damage or destroy something, such as a natural environment or a work of art
- * To commit a sacrilegious or blasphemous act
Usage Examples
- The factory's toxic waste defiled the nearby river, making it undrinkable for the local wildlife
- * The vandal's graffiti defiled the historic monument, causing outrage among the community
- * The politician's corrupt actions defiled the integrity of the government, leading to widespread protests
Antonyms
purify
cleanse
sanctify
consecrate
bless
hallow
honor
respect
revere
admire
praise
commend
extol
glorify
exalt
elevate
uplift
ennoble
dignify
refine
polish
restore
renew
revitalize
rejuvenate
refresh