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book burning

American  

noun

  1. 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.


Etymology

Origin of book burning

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sobel likened the sign's removal to "book burning" under Nazi Germany, but without the spectacle.

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

"Deleting gobs of public data/resources as well is the digital equivalent of book burning."

From Salon • Feb. 4, 2025

The video shows the book burning in a tin foil tray next to the Iraqi flag on the ground, with two onlookers standing and talking next to it.

From Reuters • Jul. 22, 2023

The film includes references to book burning and goose stepping, and it lampoons fascism’s inherent violence.

From Washington Post • May 15, 2019

Her flyer for the book burning somersaults away in the breeze.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed

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