take someone's name in vain
US /teɪk ˈsʌm.wʌnz neɪm ɪn veɪn/
UK /teɪk ˈsʌm.wʌnz neɪm ɪn veɪn/
1.
to use someone's name disrespectfully, especially in a religious context, by using God's name irreverently
:
•
The Bible says, 'You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.'
•
He was warned not to take the name of the deity in vain during the ceremony.