Biblioclasm

/ˌbɪbliˈɒklæzəm/ noun

Definition

The destruction or desecration of books, especially sacred or important texts; contempt for books or learning.

Etymology

From Greek 'biblion' (book) plus 'klastes' (broken or breaker), influenced by 'iconoclasm' (breaking images). The term emerged to describe both literal book destruction and metaphorical attacks on literacy and learning.

Kelly Says

Biblioclasm literally means 'book-breaking,' mirroring 'iconoclasm' (image-breaking). But while iconoclasm sounds noble to some (breaking false idols), biblioclasm is almost always negative—destroying books is seen as a civilizational crime.

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