Word of the Day: Abomination – The Concept of Something Unimaginably Terrible!

 

Word of the Day: Abomination – The Concept of Something Unimaginably Terrible!

Definition

Abomination (ə-ˌbäm-ˈā-shən) – noun

  1. A thing that causes disgust or hatred.
  2. A feeling of intense loathing or revulsion towards something perceived as morally wrong or evil.
  3. An act or practice that is considered abhorrent or completely unacceptable.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Horror
  • Atrocity
  • Outrage
  • Wickedness
  • Abhorrence

Antonyms:

  • Delight
  • Joy
  • Pleasure
  • Admiration
  • Approval

Introduction

What’s the worst thing you can imagine? Something so repulsive that you just can’t look away? That’s what an abomination is – a truly horrifying thing, something that fills you with disgust or moral outrage. This word carries a weight of judgment and negativity. Let's explore its origins and see how it’s used to express some of the most severe reactions in language!

Etymology and Origins

Abomination comes from the Latin abominatio, which means "to detest or to shun as an omen." The root abominari is derived from ab- (away from) and omen (a sign or warning). In ancient cultures, omens were often interpreted as bad or evil signs, and something that was abominable was considered to be an omen of misfortune or disaster. Over time, the word has evolved into one that signifies a strong sense of moral condemnation.

Applications of "Abomination" in Different Contexts

1. Religious or Moral Disgust

In many cultures and religious texts, abomination is used to describe acts that are seen as morally wrong or sinful.

Example:
Many believe that certain actions, such as cruelty to animals, are an abomination because they go against the principles of compassion and respect.

2. The Extreme Case of Evil

Abomination is sometimes used to describe an action or event that is not just wrong but utterly evil or destructive, making it difficult for people to even comprehend.

Example:
The genocide during World War II is considered an abomination because of its horrific impact on humanity.

3. Social and Cultural Intolerance

In society, behaviors or practices that deviate significantly from accepted norms can be called abominations, especially if they lead to harm or are seen as deeply offensive.

Example:
In some societies, practices like child marriage are regarded as an abomination due to their harmful effects on children.

Pronunciation

/ə-ˌbäm-ˈā-shən/

Examples in Literature

  • The Bible (Leviticus 18:22):
    "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is an abomination."
    This verse illustrates how certain actions were labeled as abominations due to their perceived moral wrongness.

  • Mary Shelley, Frankenstein:
    "The abomination that I had created haunted me night and day."
    Shelley uses the term to describe the creature Frankenstein created, something that was both physically and morally repellent to its creator.

  • Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter:
    "She would be an abomination in the eyes of the community."
    In Hawthorne’s novel, abomination is used to describe the intense social stigma surrounding Hester Prynne’s actions.

Modern Usage

In Popular Culture

In modern culture, abomination is often used to describe villains, monstrous actions, or corrupt institutions in movies, books, and video games.

Example:
The villain’s plot to destroy the world was considered an abomination, one that the hero couldn’t allow to come to fruition.

In Social Issues

The term is also used to express outrage over controversial social issues, especially those that involve harm to individuals or communities.

Example:
The destruction of natural habitats for profit is often viewed as an abomination by environmentalists.

Interactive Quiz

Test Your Knowledge of "Abomination"

  1. What does abomination mean?
    a) A pleasant and acceptable action
    b) A thing that causes disgust or hatred
    c) An event that brings happiness

  2. Which of these is an example of something that might be considered an abomination?
    a) An act of kindness
    b) An evil crime against humanity
    c) A peaceful protest

  3. What is a synonym for abomination?
    a) Love
    b) Outrage
    c) Admiration

Answers:

  1. b) A thing that causes disgust or hatred
  2. b) An evil crime against humanity – something that causes deep moral outrage.
  3. b) Outrage – Abomination is a strong form of moral disapproval or disgust.

Conclusion

Abomination is a powerful word that describes extreme hatred, disgust, or moral condemnation. It’s often used in serious contexts to refer to acts or events that are universally considered wrong or evil. When you think about the worst of human actions or the most intolerable behaviors, you’ll likely find that the word abomination fits perfectly.

Stay tuned for our next blog: Aborigines – Understanding the Indigenous Roots of Cultures.