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abhorrent

Abhorrent (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/əbˈhɒrənt/

What does abhorrent mean?

Causing extreme feelings of disgust, resentment and loathing.
"The concept of slavery is abhorrent to most people in modern society."

Detailed Meaning of Abhorrent

It can be used to describe something that is deeply offensive or distasteful, or something that is strongly opposed or disapproved of. The word suggests a strong feeling of disgust or revulsion. For example, you might describe a person's behavior as abhorrent if it is morally wrong or repugnant, or describe a food as abhorrent if it is extremely unappealing or disgusting.

Example Sentences for Abhorrent

1. She considered animal cruelty as utterly abhorrent and in need of tougher sentencing.
2. She considers any form of racial discrimination as abhorrent and intollerable.
3. The idea of human trafficing is utterly abhorrent.
4. The idea of slavery is abhorrent to any right-minded person.
5. Smoking around children is completely abhorrent.
6. He had a difficult childhood and regards domestic violence as criminally abhorrent.

Origin and Etymology of Abhorrent

The adjective 'abhorrent' traces its origins to the Latin word 'abhorrere,' which means 'to shrink back from' or 'to be repelled by.' This Latin term is a combination of 'ab,' meaning 'away from,' and 'horrere,' meaning 'to shudder' or 'to tremble.' When something is described as 'abhorrent,' it is considered so repulsive or detestable that it elicits strong feelings of disgust, resentment, and loathing, causing one to recoil from or reject it vehemently. The etymology of 'abhorrent' underscores its inherent connection to intense aversion and the desire to distance oneself from that which is abhorred.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective abhorrent:

repulsive

delightful

attractive

appealing

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Abhorrent

1. She regards capital punishment as abhorrent to any civilized society.
2. Corporal punishment is generally regarded as abhorrent in a modern society.
3. Discrimination of any kind is abhorrent to a civilized society.
4. The sight of the dead animal was abhorrent to her.
5. The idea of torture is abhorrent to most people.
6. His behavior was abhorrent, and he was rightly punished for it.
7. The smell of rotten eggs is abhorrent to most people.
8. The thought of eating insects is abhorrent to many Westerners.
9. The notion of genocide is abhorrent to anyone with a moral compass.
10. The sound of nails on a chalkboard is abhorrent to most people.
11. The sight of blood makes some people feel abhorrent.
12. He confessed to the abhorrent crimes that had been committed under the regime.
13. The behavior of the dictator was abhorrent, and he was eventually overthrown.
14. The thought of infidelity is abhorrent to most people in a committed relationship.
15. The taste of raw oysters is abhorrent to some people.