'desecratory' originates from Latin roots, specifically from the element 'de-' + 'sacer' where 'sacer' meant 'sacred'. The English verb 'desecrate' was formed from these elements and the adjective was later formed with the suffix '-ory'.

'desecratory' developed from the verb 'desecrate', which came into English via Late Latin/Old French formations (e.g. Late Latin 'desecratus' / Old French forms related to 'desacrer') and Middle English 'desecraten' before becoming modern English 'desecrate' and then the adjective 'desecratory'.

Initially related to the act 'to make unholy' or 'to profane', the word evolved into an adjective describing things or actions that are characterized by or tending toward desecration — i.e., showing disrespect for what is sacred.