Synonyms for

Excommunication

Verb / ˌekskʌˌmju:nʌˈkeɪʃʌn / Another word for excommunication — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Excommunication is the act of officially excluding someone from participation in the sacraments and services of the Christian Church.

Synonyms & similar words

exclusion censure excision banishment ostracism expulsion deprivation disfellowship disgrace estrangement isolation separation shunning suspension blackballing boycott censure damnation dismissal exclusion rejection repudiation proscription

Example sentences

  1. The bishop threatened to excommunicate the priest who broke his vow of celibacy.
  2. The church's excommunication of Galileo for his scientific ideas was a dark chapter in its history.
  3. The Pope's excommunication of Henry VIII had a major impact on the English Reformation.
  4. The Amish practice of shunning is similar to excommunication in some ways.
  5. The threat of excommunication was often used as a way to keep people in line during the Middle Ages.

Quotes

  • The excommunication of Galileo was one of the most shameful events in Church history. - Stephen Hawking
  • Excommunication is an unpleasant process, but sometimes it's necessary to maintain the integrity of the Church. - Pope Francis
  • The fear of excommunication is a powerful tool for keeping people obedient. - Karen Armstrong

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