Excommunicate

usgb/ˌekskəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/
verb

To officially remove someone from participation in the services and sacraments of a church.

The church chose to excommunicate him due to his persistent refusal to adhere to its rules.
Visual representation of "excommunicate" - To officially remove someone from participation in the services and sacraments of a church.

Often appears as...

  • choose to excommunicate
  • excommunicate from church

Usage tips

Disapproving

Religious

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "excommunicate"
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Religious Consequence

Being excommunicated is serious in religious contexts; it's like being cut off from spiritual community and benefits.

Illustration for Religious Consequence
After being excommunicated, he could no longer receive communion.
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Rare Modern Use

Modern churches rarely excommunicate members; it's often historical or used in traditional denominations.

Illustration for Rare Modern Use
Excommunicate is more common in history books than in today's churches.
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Authority Action

Excommunication is a decision by church leaders, not just a personal disagreement or quarrel.

Illustration for Authority Action
The bishop had to approve to excommunicate the rebellious priest.
Visual representation of the word "Excommunicate"

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