Prof`a*na"tion (?), n. [L. profanatio: cf. F. profanation. See Profane,
v. t.] 1. The act of violating sacred things, or of treating them with
contempt or irreverence; irreverent or too familiar treatment or use of
what is sacred; desecration; as, the profanation of the Sabbath; the
profanation of a sanctuary; the profanation of the name of God.
2. The act of treating with abuse or disrespect, or with undue
publicity, or lack of delicacy.
'T were profanation of our joys To tell the laity our love.
Donne.
Pro*fane" (?), a. [F., fr. L. profanus, properly, before the temple, i.
e., without the temple, unholy; pro before + fanum temple. See 1st
Fane.]
1. Not sacred or holy; not possessing peculiar sanctity; unconsecrated;
hence, relating to matters other than sacred; secular; -- opposed to
sacred, religious, or inspired; as, a profane place. "Profane authors."
I. Disraeli.
The profane wreath was suspended before the shrine.
Gibbon.