Definition of profane

The word "profane" originated in the Middle Ages, around the 13th century. It comes from the Latin word "profanus," which means "secular" or "worldly." In religious contexts, the term "profane" was used to describe anything that was not sacred or divine. The principle idea behind the word "profane" was that anything not related to God was considered less important or valuable. During the Middle Ages, the Church played a significant role in society, both spiritually and politically. As a result, the division between sacred and secular became increasingly rigid, and the secular domain was often seen as inferior to the spiritual one. Usage of the term "profane" expanded to describe anything considered irreligious, impious, or blasphemous. Over time, the meaning of the term has broadened further, and it is now also used in more general contexts to refer to anything that is considered common, ordinary, or unfavored. While the notion of sacred versus secular has changed in contemporary societies, the significance of the word "profane" is still relevant today in various contexts. It is still associated with irreverence, disrespect, and offense towards religious values and principles, especially in religious communities. However, in modern times, the term "profane" also has more general uses related to profanity, vulgarity, or our lack of reverence towards something perceived as sacred.