profanation

PROFANA'TION, n. [L. profano. See Profane.]

1. The act of violating sacred things, or of treating them with contempt or irreverence; as the profanation of the sabbath by sports, amusements or unnecessary labor; the profanation of a sanctuary; the profanation of the name of God by swearing, jesting, &c.

2. The act of treating with abuse or disrespect.

'Twere profanation of our joys

To tell the laity our love.