Abomination: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'abominari,' which means 'to shun as an evil omen.'
• It evolved in Middle English, where it meant 'to have a strong dislike.'
• The roots of the term connect to the prefix 'ab-' meaning 'away' and 'ominare' meaning 'to supply with an omen.'

Religion

• In many religious texts, certain actions or behaviors are referred to as abominations, often implying moral or spiritual misconduct.
• For example, in the Bible, certain practices are labeled as abominations, signifying their rejection by God.
• The concept helps followers identify and avoid actions considered sinful or undesirable according to religious teachings.

Social Commentary

• The term has been used in social and political discourse to describe actions or policies that are viewed as morally reprehensible.
• In discussions about human rights, certain forms of discrimination are termed as abominations, highlighting their impact on dignity and justice.
• Activists often use the term to galvanize support against practices viewed as inhumane or unjust.

Culture and Literature

• Abominations appear frequently in literature, often symbolizing societal fears or moral failures, such as in Mary Shelley’s 'Frankenstein'.
• In folklore, creatures described as abominations often represent the ills of society, showcasing the fear of the unknown or evil.
• The concept has been portrayed in various films and art forms, using the imagery of the grotesque to challenge viewers' ethics.

Psychology

• The reaction to an abomination can evoke strong emotional responses, including disgust and anger.
• Psychologically, the label of 'abomination' can serve as a tool for societal benchmarking, delineating acceptable vs. unacceptable behavior.
• The feelings surrounding the identification of something as an abomination can impact personal values and group dynamics.

With rank #19,813, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 19810 lovable
• 19811 stabilizer
• 19812 reborn
• 19813 abomination
• 19814 embittered
• 19815 patting
• 19816 nostril
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