anathema Definition
something or someone that is intensely disliked or loathed; a formal curse by a pope or a council of the Church, excommunicating a person or denouncing a doctrine.
Using anathema: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "anathema" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
For many people, public speaking is anathema.
Example
The idea of raising taxes was anathema to the conservative politician.
Example
In some cultures, eating pork is considered anathema.
Example
The church issued an anathema against the heretical teachings.
anathema Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for anathema
Phrases with anathema
Example
The idea of working on weekends is anathema to him.
Example
The bishop uttered anathemas against the heretics.
Example
The bishop declared anathema sit against the heretic.
Origins of anathema
from Greek 'anathema', meaning 'a thing devoted'
Summary: anathema in Brief
The term 'anathema' [əˈnæθəmə] refers to something or someone that is intensely disliked or loathed. It can also refer to a formal curse by a pope or council of the Church, excommunicating a person or denouncing a doctrine. The phrase 'be anathema to someone' means something that is completely unacceptable or intolerable to someone. 'Anathema sit' is a Latin phrase used in the Catholic Church to denote excommunication or condemnation.