Execrated: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'execrari,' meaning 'to curse or to declare as an enemy.'
• In its earliest forms, it was used in religious contexts to call down curses on those who committed serious wrongs.
• The prefix 'ex-' can mean 'out of' or 'from,' while 'secrari' relates to 'sacred'—suggesting a rejection of something once seen as worthy.

Literature

• William Shakespeare often used terms similar to 'execrate' in his plays to express deep disdain, particularly against characters with malicious intent.
• The term appears in various literary works to evoke emotions of disgust and anti-heroism, showcasing the intense feelings of characters.
• Poetry frequently employs 'execrated' to heighten the drama, signifying moral outrage against societal issues.

Psychology

• Execration is often linked to the human desire to distance oneself from something perceived as evil or wrong, reflecting our moral judgments.
• Expressing feelings of execration can provide a psychological release but can also lead to prolonged negativity if not balanced with forgiveness.
• Hate and execration can be tied to group dynamics, where individuals may jointly execrate a person or entity that threatens their values.

Pop Culture

• In modern media, characters often use execrated as a way to express their outrage against villains or societal norms they perceive as wrong.
• Many songs and movies depict themes of execration, symbolizing rebellion against oppressive forces or unethical behaviors.
• Reality TV often brings out strong feelings of execration among contestants and viewers towards perceived 'villains' in the show.

History

• Historically, figures that were execrated often faced public ostracism or execution, indicative of the extreme nature of societal rejection.
• Throughout different cultures, the practice of execrating enemies dates back to ancient civilizations where curses or imprisonment were common reactions to treachery.
• The concept of execration has been used in various rebellions, where oppressed groups publicly condemned their oppressors to gain solidarity and foster movements.

This word's position of #34,557 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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