Defile

usgb/dɪˈfaɪl/
verb

To damage or ruin something pure or clean.

They were accused of defiling the sacred site with their protests.
Visual representation of "defile" - To damage or ruin something pure or clean

Often appears as...

  • defile the environment
  • defile someone's reputation
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "defile"
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Moral Implications

Using 'defile' suggests a strong moral judgment about the action.

Illustration for Moral Implications
The company's illegal dumping has defiled the once pristine lake.
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Gravity of Action

'Defile' indicates an action that seriously harms purity or cleanliness.

Illustration for Gravity of Action
The graffiti artist defiled the monument with vulgar images.
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Not Physical Only

While often physical, 'defile' can refer to intangible things like honor or air quality.

Illustration for Not Physical Only
The politician's lies defiled the dignity of the office.
Visual representation of the word "Defile"

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