VocabDictionary

blaspheme

/blæsˈfiːm/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To speak irreverently, disrespectfully, or profanely about God, sacred things, or religious beliefs.

Example Sentences:
  • The radical orator was arrested for daring to blaspheme against the state religion.
  • He felt that using such vulgar language in the sanctuary was to blaspheme the holiness of the space.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “blaspheme”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'blasphemer', which comes from the Late Latin 'blasphemare', originating from the Greek 'blasphēmein'. The Greek root is likely a combination of 'blaptein' (to injure) and 'phēmē' (reputation/speech), literally meaning 'to speak evil of' or 'to damage someone's reputation'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'blast' + 'fame': to blast someone's fame or reputation by speaking disrespectfully about sacred things.

Frequently Asked Questions About “blaspheme

1. What is the meaning of “blaspheme” in English?

In English, blaspheme (verb) is defined as: “To speak irreverently, disrespectfully, or profanely about God, sacred things, or religious beliefs.”.

2. How do you use “blaspheme” in a sentence?

The radical orator was arrested for daring to blaspheme against the state religion.

3. What are English synonyms of “blaspheme”?

Common synonyms include:profane,desecrate,revile,execrate

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “blaspheme”?

Derived from the Old French 'blasphemer', which comes from the Late Latin 'blasphemare', originating from the Greek 'blasphēmein'. The Greek root is likely a combination of 'blaptein' (to injure) and 'phēmē' (reputation/speech), literally meaning 'to speak evil of' or 'to damage someone's reputation'.