Word of the Day: Abomination -What Does Abomination Really Mean? Let’s Explore Something Truly Terrible!

 

Definition

Abomination (ə-ˌbäm-ə-ˈnā-shən) – noun

  1. A thing or action that is regarded with disgust or hatred.
  2. Something that is morally repulsive or abhorrent, often considered to be vile or shameful.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Horror
  • Outrage
  • Atrocity
  • Disgust
  • Evil

Antonyms:

  • Delight
  • Pleasure
  • Joy
  • Favor
  • Admiration

Introduction

We’ve all experienced moments when something makes us cringe or feel deeply disturbed. That deep, visceral reaction to something profoundly wrong is what the word abomination describes. It’s not just dislike – it’s a strong emotional response to something that goes against all moral or natural order. Let’s take a closer look at this powerful word and its various meanings!

Etymology and Origins

Abomination comes from the Latin word abominari, meaning “to shun as an ill omen” or “to detest.” The root ab means “away from” and omen relates to a sign or prophecy, combining to create the idea of turning away in horror from something that signifies ill fortune. Over time, the word expanded to encompass anything that is loathed or detested.

Applications of "Abomination" in Different Contexts

1. Religious and Moral Context

Abomination is often used in religious or moral discussions to describe actions or behaviors considered sinful or morally wrong. Many religious texts refer to various practices or behaviors as abominations due to their perceived violation of sacred laws.

Example:
In the Bible, certain actions, like idol worship, are described as abominations because they are seen as deeply sinful and offensive to God.

2. Social and Political Context

In social and political contexts, abomination is used to describe actions that society views as morally reprehensible. These can range from acts of cruelty to grave injustices that shock the collective conscience.

Example:
The practice of apartheid in South Africa was widely regarded as an abomination due to its racial discrimination and oppression of non-white populations.

Pronunciation

/ə-ˌbäm-ə-ˈnā-shən/

Examples in Literature

  • Herman Melville, Moby-Dick:
    “The sight of the whale, in its silent fury, was an abomination to the senses of those who dared confront it.”
    Melville uses abomination to convey the horror and awe of the massive whale in his novel.

  • Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist:
    “The conditions in the workhouses were an abomination, an affront to human dignity.”
    Dickens highlights the appalling conditions that were considered deeply unjust and inhumane.

  • Mary Shelley, Frankenstein:
    “The creature I created was an abomination in the eyes of society.”
    In this case, Frankenstein’s monster is referred to as an abomination due to its unnatural creation and appearance.

Modern Usage

In Popular Culture

In modern usage, abomination is often used to describe extreme cases of wrongdoing or repulsive behavior, especially in the context of violence, injustice, or cruelty. It’s commonly used in both formal and casual language to convey a strong sense of revulsion.

Example:
Many people view environmental destruction, such as deforestation, as an abomination due to the damage it does to the planet.

In Social Movements

Activists often use the term abomination when describing actions or policies that harm groups of people or the environment. It’s used to rally people to take action against practices that are viewed as morally intolerable.

Example:
The abomination of human trafficking continues to be a focus for organizations fighting to end modern-day slavery.

Interactive Quiz

Test Your Knowledge of "Abomination"

  1. What does abomination refer to?
    a) A thing or action regarded with joy
    b) A thing or action regarded with disgust
    c) A thing or action that brings peace

  2. Which of the following is an example of an abomination?
    a) A peaceful protest for social change
    b) Acts of cruelty and injustice
    c) A community gathering

  3. What is an antonym of abomination?
    a) Delight
    b) Outrage
    c) Atrocity

Answers:

  1. b) A thing or action regarded with disgust – Abomination refers to things that cause strong revulsion or horror.
  2. b) Acts of cruelty and injustice – These are considered abominations because they go against moral or ethical standards.
  3. a) Delight – This is the opposite of abomination, which involves disgust or revulsion.

Conclusion

An abomination is more than just something unpleasant – it’s something so repulsive that it evokes intense hatred and rejection. Whether in religious texts, social reforms, or personal experiences, abomination describes the extremes of moral outrage. It’s a word that calls us to reflect on our values and take a stand against what is deeply wrong in society.

Stay tuned for our next blog: Aborigines – The Original Inhabitants and Their Rich History!