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Abhorrence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abhorrence

[ษ™bหˆhษ”หrษ™ns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

feeling

A feeling of repulsion; disgusted loathing.

Synonyms

disgust, hatred, repugnance, revulsion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
abhorrence

This word is very strong and formal. It is used to describe a deep and intense dislike or hatred, often with a moral or ethical dimension.

  • His abhorrence for corruption was well known
  • She looked at the crime scene with abhorrence
disgust

A commonly used word indicating a strong distaste or aversion, typically in situations that provoke a strong negative reaction, such as something dirty, offensive, or morally wrong.

  • He felt disgust when he saw the rotten food
  • She expressed her disgust at the unjust treatment of the workers
revulsion

Used to describe a strong, sudden feeling of disgust or repulsion, often in reaction to something shocking or highly unpleasant.

  • She felt a revulsion at the cruel treatment of animals
  • His face showed revulsion when he found out the truth
hatred

A very strong term for intense dislike, often used in personal conflicts or situations of deep and sustained animosity.

  • Their mutual hatred led to constant conflicts
  • She could not hide her hatred for the dictator
repugnance

A formal word that indicates strong distaste or aversion, often due to things that are offensive or grossly improper.

  • He felt repugnance at the sight of the blood
  • There was a repugnance between the two ideologies

Examples of usage

  • His abhorrence of injustice drove him to become a human rights activist.
  • The abhorrence she felt towards violence made her avoid action movies.
  • I couldn't hide my abhorrence for the cruel treatment of animals.
  • Her abhorrence towards racism fueled her commitment to promoting equality.
  • Abhorrence towards corruption led to widespread protests in the country.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that extreme feelings of abhorrence can stem from cultural upbringing or personal experiences.
  • Disgust is a key component of abhorrence, often serving as a protective mechanism against harmful substances or behaviors.
  • Emotions like abhorrence can impact decision-making, influencing our choices in social interactions and moral judgments.

Literature

  • In literature, abhorrence is often used to express strong moral opposition, as seen in works that critique societal issues.
  • Many authors evoke feelings of abhorrence to challenge readersโ€™ perspectives on taboo subjects, encouraging reflection.
  • Classic works often depict characters who embody abhorrence, illustrating the struggle between societal norms and personal morals.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have long debated the role of abhorrence in ethics, questioning when it is justifiably felt.
  • In moral philosophy, feelings of abhorrence can prompt discussions about virtue and vice, exploring what is considered objectionable.
  • Existentialists discuss abhorrence as a response to the absurdity of life, reflecting on how it shapes human existence and choices.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often portray characters experiencing abhorrence during moments of betrayal or villainy, amplifying tension.
  • Public figures can elicit abhorrence through their words or actions, sparking movements or calls for change among audiences.
  • Social media can amplify feelings of abhorrence, as people share their strong feelings about various issues, influencing public discourse.

Origin of 'abhorrence'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'abhorrere', which means 'to shrink back from' or 'to shudder'.
  • It made its way into Middle English in the late 14th century, showing attitudes toward dislike and aversion.
  • The prefix 'ab-' means 'away from', while 'horrere' relates to trembling or shuddering, emphasizing strong emotional reactions.

The word 'abhorrence' has its origins in the late Middle English period, derived from the Latin word 'abhorrere', which means 'to shrink back from'. Over time, the term evolved to represent a strong feeling of disgust or loathing towards something or someone. The concept of abhorrence has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history, often associated with moral principles and values.

See also: abhorrent, abhorrently.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,042, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.