book burning

noun

1. the destruction of writings of which the subject, the view of the author, or the like is considered politically or socially objectionable: used as a means of censorship or oppression.

Word History and Origins

Origin of book burning¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

He talks to Rebecca Dana about book burning, his new HBO series, and whether he speaks to Oprah.

From The Daily Beast

Founded in 1873, the New York Society for the Suppression of Vice, headed by Anthony Comstock, inscribed book burning on its seal.

From The Daily Beast

The instances of book-burning where this indignity was either not imposed, or its infliction not recorded, are numerous.

From Project Gutenberg

Passing now to the eighteenth century, we find book-burning, then declining in England, in full vigour on the Continent.

From Project Gutenberg

The book-burning days were considered amongst the great days of fte.

From Project Gutenberg