defrock

[ dee-frok ]

verb (used with object)

1. to deprive (a monk, priest, minister, etc.) of ecclesiastical rank, authority, and function; depose.
2. to discharge from a profession, office, or honorary position:

   a defrocked lawyer.

3. to divest or strip of a frock.

defrock

/ diːˈfrɒk /

verb

1. tr to deprive (a person in holy orders) of ecclesiastical status; unfrock

Word History and Origins

Origin of defrock¹

First recorded in 1575–85; from French défroquer, equivalent to dé- + froque + -er infinitive suffix; dis- ¹, frock

Example Sentences

Even after he became pope, Ratzinger refused to defrock this monster priest or provide the evidence against him to the police.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• abuse
• chastise
• correct
• crack down on
• discipline
• dismiss
• execute
• expel
• fine
• harm
• hurt
• incarcerate
• sentence