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unfrock

[ uhn-frok ]

/ ʌnˈfrɒk /

SEE SYNONYMS FOR unfrock ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used with object)

to deprive (a monk, priest, minister, etc.) of ecclesiastical rank, authority, and function; depose.

to divest or strip of a frock.

Also defrock.

Origin of unfrock

First recorded in 1635–45; un-² + frock

Words nearby unfrock

unfreeze, unfrequented, unfriend, unfriended, unfriendly, unfrock, unfroze, unfruitful, unfulfilled, unfunded, unfunded debt

Example sentences from the Web for unfrock

He may come to be a worthy soldier, and so justify me in allowing him to unfrock himself.

Both Sides the Border |G. A. Henty
The queen herself could write to a bishop who scrupled to do what she desired, "By God, I will unfrock you!"

The Beginners of a Nation |Edward Eggleston.
But not on that account do I wish to unfrock myself; nor certainly on that account do I wish to be deprived of my wife.

Dr. Wortle's School |Anthony Trollope
I am inclined to unfrock and scourge them sorely for their leasings.

Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare |Walter Savage Landor

If you do not immediately comply with my request, I will unfrock you, by God!

Constance Sherwood |Lady Georgiana Fullerton

British Dictionary definitions for unfrock

unfrock

/ (ʌnˈfrɒk) /

verb

(tr) to deprive (a person in holy orders) of ecclesiastical status