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

Baker remained in the ministry until 2000, when he was defrocked, church records show.

From Los Angeles Times

They’re defrocking the Mets down to their vagabond shoes that are longing to ... oh, forget it, one shouldn’t need to crib from a corny song to describe what is happening here.

From Los Angeles Times

There have also been new rules whereby clergy who have committed abuse can “defrocked.”

From BBC

Years ago Mike McCurry – during the Clinton administration – made a point of calling on a defrocked minister who always asked questions about Bigfoot and space aliens.

From Salon

Twenty years ago, Beth Stroud was defrocked as a United Methodist Church pastor after telling her Philadelphia congregation that she was in a committed same-sex relationship.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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