ANATHEMA Meaning and
Definition
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Anathema is a noun that refers to something or someone that is intensely loathed, disliked, or condemned. Derived from the Ancient Greek word 'anáthema,' it gained popularity within the English language during the early 16th century. Anathema carries a strong sense of abhorrence, denunciation, or rejection that often emerges from a cultural, moral, or religious perspective. It is usually reserved for individuals, concepts, or practices that are considered morally repugnant, sacrilegious, or offensive.
The term anathema can refer to a wide range of contexts. In a religious sense, it is utilized to describe an object, belief, or individual who has been expelled or cursed by a religious authority, thus separating them from their community. It may also be used more generally to indicate something that is vehemently detested, such as a despised political figure, an abhorrent ideology, or an act that is perceived as ethically reprehensible.
The use of anathema often carries implicit connotations of societal rejection or ostracism. It implies that the subject being labeled as anathema goes beyond mere disagreement or dislike, provoking an intense and widespread revulsion. The term emphasizes the strong emotional response elicited by something that is considered utterly abominable, profane, or outside the boundaries of acceptable behavior or belief.
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A curse; a separation for destruction.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for ANATHEMA *
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Other Common Misspellings for ANATHEMA
Etymology of ANATHEMA
The word "anathema" has its origins in ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "anathema" (ἀνάθεμα), which means "a thing devoted" or "a curse". In Greek, the term was used for an offering or sacrifice made to a god or goddess, and later evolved to refer to something dedicated or set apart in a negative sense. In Christian theology, "anathema" came to signify a formal ecclesiastical curse or condemnation, separating someone from the religious community. Overall, the word has retained its sense of denoting a strong abhorrence or condemnation throughout its history.
Similar spelling words for ANATHEMA
- antennal,
- antimatter,
- anhedonia,
- andante,
- Antwan,
- and then,
- anthem,
- anthemis,
- anathemise,
- antenatal,
- antennary,
- antenna,
- antonym,
- Anthemion,
- Antone,
- antinomasia,
- antum,
- Andaman Sea,
- anathemize,
- Antoine,
- anethum,
- Antonia,
- antennaria,
- Antione.
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