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detestation

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Dictionary definition of detestation

A strong feeling or state of intense dislike, aversion, or abhorrence towards something or someone.
"The team's detestation of losing motivated them to work harder."

Detailed meaning of detestation

It represents a profound and often visceral repulsion or hatred. When someone experiences detestation, they harbor deep-seated and vehement negative emotions towards the object of their detestation. The term implies a profound sense of disgust, disdain, or revulsion, going beyond mere dislike or disagreement. Detestation can be directed towards various entities, such as actions, behaviors, ideologies, individuals, or objects. It signifies a strong and enduring aversion that may arise from moral, personal, or emotional reasons. 'Detestation' encapsulates the powerful emotional response associated with intense dislike and abhorrence, expressing a deeply ingrained rejection and repugnance.

Example sentences containing detestation

1. His detestation of violence led him to become an advocate for peace.
2. The novel evoked a sense of detestation towards the oppressive regime.
3. Her detestation of spiders made her scream and run away whenever she saw one.
4. The politician's policies stirred detestation among the population.
5. The artist's work invoked a feeling of detestation in some viewers.
6. The speaker expressed their detestation of discrimination and inequality.

History and etymology of detestation

The noun 'detestation' finds its etymological roots in the Latin language. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'detestatio,' which is derived from 'detestari,' a combination of 'de,' meaning 'completely' or 'intensely,' and 'testari,' meaning 'to bear witness' or 'to affirm.' In its original Latin form, 'detestatio' referred to a solemn and intense expression of disapproval or abhorrence. As time passed, this term evolved and made its way into English as 'detestation.' Consequently, the etymology of 'detestation' underscores its historical connection with the strong feeling or state of intense dislike, aversion, or abhorrence towards something or someone, reflecting its Latin origins of fervent disapproval and condemnation.

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Further usage examples of detestation

1. The journalist's exposé on corruption fueled public detestation towards the government.
2. The professor's detestation of cheating was evident in her strict anti-plagiarism policies.
3. The community rallied together in detestation of the hate speech incident.
4. The character's detestation of injustice led them to fight for social change.
5. The documentary revealed the detestation of animal cruelty among its viewers.
6. Her detestation of spiders made her shiver at the sight.
7. The detestation of war was a driving force for peace activists.
8. His detestation of injustice fueled his advocacy.
9. The politician's corruption earned widespread detestation.
10. Their detestation of violence led to peaceful protests.
11. The team's detestation of losing motivated them to excel.
12. Environmentalists harbor a deep detestation of pollution.
13. The detestation of cruelty toward animals sparked a movement.
14. The film evoked a sense of detestation for the antagonist.
15. Discrimination against any group should be met with detestation.
16. His detestation of gossip led to a reputation for discretion.
17. Detestation of dishonesty was a core value in their family.
18. The detestation of poverty drove them to charitable work.
19. The artist's work provoked admiration and detestation.
20. Racism and prejudice deserved universal detestation.
21. The detestation of lies permeated the courtroom.
22. The detestation of tyranny ignited a revolution.
23. His detestation of conformity inspired creative rebellion.
24. In the face of corruption, their detestation was palpable.
25. Detestation of betrayal left emotional scars.