'desecrate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'desecratus,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'sacrare' meant 'to make sacred.'

'desecratus' transformed into the French word 'desecrer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'desecrate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make something unsacred,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to treat a sacred place or thing with violent disrespect.'