Execrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'execrari', which means 'to curse or to detest'.
• It is formed from 'ex-' meaning 'out of' and 'sacer' meaning 'holy' or 'sacred'.
• The term has been in use in the English language since the 15th century.

Literature

• Execrate is often used in poetry and prose to convey deep disdain, highlighting a character's moral or ethical struggle.
• Famous works sometimes use this term to describe societal issues or to criticize elements in political discourse.
• In Gothic literature, characters might execrate their fates, reflecting their inner turmoil and negative emotions.

Philosophy

• The term can be related to discussions on morality, where individuals execrate actions considered unlawful or immoral.
• It's also used in existential contexts, where one might execrate social norms that restrict personal freedom.
• Philosophers have explored the implications of execrating one's own choices, leading to debates about self-hatred versus self-acceptance.

Pop Culture

• The term appears in many songs and films where characters express vehement opposition to certain ideologies or actions.
• In modern contexts, social media often leads to public execration of controversial figures or actions, demonstrating the collective disapproval.
• Satirical cartoons frequently depict the execration of political figures, using humor to highlight societal frustrations.

Psychology

• Execration can be a psychological response to perceived injustice, motivating individuals to speak out against wrongdoings.
• This intense feeling can manifest in various behaviors from verbal expressions of hate to activism and social movements.
• Understanding the psychology behind execration can help in addressing personal and societal conflicts.

Ranking #37,730, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 37728 misappropriate
• 37729 pinstripe
• 37730 execrate
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• 37732 obstructionism
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