Publicly declaring someone or something to be wrong, evil, or deserving punishment; informing against someone.
From Old French 'denoncer,' from Latin 'denuntiāre' (to announce publicly, report). Combines 'de-' (away) and 'nuntiāre' (to announce). Historically used for formal accusations and declarations.
In medieval times, 'denouncing' someone to church authorities could actually get them prosecuted or executed—so the word carries real historical weight of public condemnation with serious consequences.
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