Vocabulary Spotlight
Abominate
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To regard with intense dislike, hatred, or loathing.
“She abominates any form of cruelty to animals.”
Pronunciation
[uh-BOM-uh-nayt]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Loathe
Hate
Despise
Revile
Antonyms
Love
Cherish
Respect
Approve
Related Words
Abomination (noun)
Word Origin
The word “abominate” comes from the Latin “abominari,” which means “to shun as a bad omen.” Derived from “ab-” (away) and “omen” (a prophetic sign), it originally implied an aversion to anything thought to bring misfortune or ill fate.
Word Family
Noun: Abomination – Something regarded with disgust or hatred.
Adjective: Abominable – Causing moral revulsion; detestable.
Mnemonics
A BOMb I Never Accept That
This mnemonic suggests that to abominate something means to strongly reject or despise it, like never accepting something unpleasant.
Industry-specific Usage
Ethics
In ethical discussions, individuals may abominate practices that are widely considered immoral or inhumane, such as fraud or abuse.
Environmental Science
Environmentalists often abominate wasteful practices and activities that harm ecosystems, advocating for sustainable alternatives.
Social Movements
Activists may abominate unjust policies or practices, striving to bring awareness and promote reform in society.
In Context
The term “abominate” is often used in contexts where individuals express a strong, deep-seated loathing for something they consider highly offensive or morally wrong. This sentiment can be applied to behaviors, events, or practices that provoke intense aversion in both personal and societal views.