Defile/dɪˈfaɪl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Moral Implications Using 'defile' suggests a strong moral judgment about the action. The company's illegal dumping has defiled the once pristine lake. Pro Tip 2/3Gravity of Action 'Defile' indicates an action that seriously harms purity or cleanliness. The graffiti artist defiled the monument with vulgar images. Pro Tip 3/3Not Physical Only While often physical, 'defile' can refer to intangible things like honor or air quality. The politician's lies defiled the dignity of the office.