book burning

noun

the destruction of writings of which the subject, the view of the author, or the like is considered politically or socially objectionable: used as a means of censorship or oppression.

First recorded in 1890–95

He talks to Rebecca Dana about book burning, his new HBO series, and whether he speaks to Oprah.

Founded in 1873, the New York Society for the Suppression of Vice, headed by Anthony Comstock, inscribed book burning on its seal.

The instances of book-burning where this indignity was either not imposed, or its infliction not recorded, are numerous.

Passing now to the eighteenth century, we find book-burning, then declining in England, in full vigour on the Continent.

The book-burning days were considered amongst the great days of fte.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse