To treat something sacred with violent disrespect; to violate the sanctity of a holy place or object. It implies deliberate damage or defilement of something considered sacred.
From Latin 'desecratus,' from 'de-' (reverse action) and 'sacrare' (to make sacred). Literally means to 'un-sacred' something, removing its holy status through violation or damage.
Desecrate is the opposite of 'consecrate' - while consecrate makes something sacred, desecrate destroys that sacredness. Think 'de-sacred-ate' - you're removing the sacred quality by treating it badly.
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