anathema

[əˈnæθəmə]

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

Antonyms for anathema

Phrases with anathema

  • be something that is completely unacceptable or intolerable to someone

    Example

    The idea of working on weekends is anathema to him.

  • to curse or denounce someone in a formal manner

    Example

    The bishop uttered anathemas against the heretics.

  • a Latin phrase used in the Catholic Church to denote excommunication or condemnation

    Example

    The bishop declared anathema sit against the heretic.

Origins of anathema

from Greek 'anathema', meaning 'a thing devoted'

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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.