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.

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Etymology

Origin of book burning

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

"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

These events have been compiled by the College Fix — a student-written news organization — and they include evidence of book burning, censorship, renamed buildings, harassed guest speakers and fired professors among the many examples.

From Washington Times • Sep. 30, 2021

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