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.