%blasphemy%

n. [ L. blasphemia, Gr. &unr_;: cf. OF. blasphemie. ] 1. An indignity offered to God in words, writing, or signs; impiously irreverent words or signs addressed to, or used in reference to, God; speaking evil of God; also, the act of claiming the attributes or prerogatives of deity. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ When used generally in statutes or at common law, blasphemy is the use of irreverent words or signs in reference to the Supreme Being in such a way as to produce scandal or provoke violence. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Figuratively, of things held in high honor: Calumny; abuse; vilification. [ 1913 Webster ]

Punished for his blasphemy against learning. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]