blasphemy

/ˈblæsfəmi/

/ˈblæsfəmi/

Other forms: blasphemies

Saying offensive things about God or religion is blasphemy. Blasphemy can be used for offensive ideas in other areas too.

If you're saying something bad about a god, or taking the Lord's name in vain, or questioning a religious institution in any way, you could be accused of blasphemy — insulting something sacred. You can use this word in a lot of other ways too. At a meeting of conservatives, a liberal idea could be considered blasphemy (and vice versa). You might even jokingly cry "Blasphemy!" if a friend said your favorite ice cream flavor stinks.

Definitions of blasphemy

1. noun

   blasphemous language (expressing disrespect for God or for something sacred)
   type of:

   discourtesy, disrespect

   an expression of lack of respect

   profanity

   vulgar or irreverent speech or action
2. noun

   blasphemous behavior; the act of depriving something of its sacred character
   synonyms: desecration, profanation, sacrilege

   type of:

   irreverence, violation

   a disrespectful act