Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

excommunicate

verb
/ˌɛks.kəˈmjun.ɪ.keɪt/
Definition
To officially exclude someone from participating in the sacraments and services of a Christian church.
Examples
  • The priest decided to excommunicate the member for heresy.
  • She was excommunicated from the church after refusing to follow its teachings.
  • Excommunicating someone is often seen as a last resort in maintaining church integrity.
Meaning
Excommunication is a form of church discipline that involves removing an individual from the fellowship of the church, often due to serious violations of church laws or doctrine.
Synonyms
  • disfellowship
  • ostracize
  • cast out
  • exile