transferred and figurative. The profanation of anything held sacred.

Desecration or profanation of something sacred; sacrilege. Also: an instance of this.

The action of violate, v. (in various senses). Also: a violation.

The action of profane, v., desecration; (also) an instance of this.

In extended use: the degradation of anything considered worthy of reverence or respect; a cheapening or vulgarization of something.

Violation, profanation.

The action of desecrating, deprivation of sacred or hallowed character, profanation; also, desecrated condition.