defile

(dĭ-fīlˈ)

1. To make filthy or dirty; pollute: defile a river with sewage.
2. To debase the pureness or excellence of; corrupt: a country landscape that was defiled by urban sprawl.
3. To profane or sully (a reputation, for example).
4. To make unclean or unfit for ceremonial use; desecrate: defile a temple.
5. To violate the chastity of.

Related Forms:

• de·fileˈment noun

• de·filˈer noun

• de·filˈing·ly adverb

(dĭ-fīlˈ)

1. A narrow gorge or pass that restricts lateral movement, as of troops.
2. A march in a line.