Anathema

Pronunciation: /əˈnæθəmə/

Definitions of anathema

noun a formal curse by a pope or a council of the Church, excommunicating a person or denouncing a doctrine

Example Sentences

A1 The idea of eating bugs is anathema to many people.

A2 For some cultures, tattoos are considered anathema.

B1 In some countries, speaking out against the government is seen as anathema.

B2 To the strict religious community, modern music is anathema.

C1 The politician's proposal was met with anathema from the opposition party.

C2 The artist's unconventional style was initially viewed as anathema by traditional art critics.

Examples of anathema in a Sentence

formal The use of profanity in public speeches is considered anathema to many politicians.

informal For some people, eating pineapple on pizza is anathema.

slang Wearing socks with sandals is anathema to fashion trends.

figurative Innovation is often seen as anathema to traditional ways of thinking.

Grammatical Forms of anathema

• past tense: anathematized
• plural: anathemas
• comparative: more anathema
• superlative: most anathema
• present tense: anathematizes
• future tense: will anathematize
• perfect tense: has anathematized
• continuous tense: is anathematizing
• singular: anathema
• positive degree: anathema
• infinitive: to anathematize
• gerund: anathematizing
• participle: anathematized

Origin and Evolution of anathema

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'anathema' originated from Greek, derived from the verb 'anatithenai' meaning 'to set up' or 'to dedicate'. In ancient Greece, anathema referred to a thing or person dedicated to a god or a curse placed upon someone.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'anathema' evolved to signify something or someone that is cursed, detested, or strongly disliked. It is often used in a religious context to denote excommunication or condemnation by a religious authority.