Execrate

/ˈɛksɪkˌreɪt/ verb

Definition

To express intense hatred or disgust for something; to curse or denounce something vehemently.

Etymology

From Latin 'execratus,' past participle of 'execrari,' combining 'ex-' (out) and 'sacrare' (to curse). The word entered English in the 16th century with full intensity of meaning.

Kelly Says

When people execrate something, they're not just criticizing it—they're calling down curses on it, a linguistic throwback to when words were believed to have magical power.

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