What does anathematise mean?
Anathematise means to curse someone or condemn them in the strongest and most unequivocal terms. Its force often lies in suggesting that the person or thing judged is not merely mistaken or objectionable but fundamentally evil, corrupt, or deserving of a solemn spiritual condemnation. The word is principally associated with formal religious discourse, although writers use it more broadly for exceptionally forceful denunciation. In older religious usage, it could refer specifically to declaring someone excommunicated. The verb is chiefly British; American English more often uses the spelling anathematize. Because anathematise is so emphatic and traditionally connected with religious curses and excommunication, it is unsuitable for routine criticism. Its historical interest lies in the contrast between the original idea of a sacred offering and the modern sense of a grave curse or condemnation.
verbTo curse someone or condemn them in the strongest terms, especially by declaring them an anathema. In a formal religious context, it can mean to pronounce someone excommunicate.
- To curse or condemn someone as evil or deserving of condemnation.
- In a formal religious context, to pronounce someone anathema or excommunicate.
"The prosecutor refused to anathematise the defendant but condemned the crime as incomprehensible."
"Religious leaders anathematised the practice as corrupt and incompatible with their faith."
"The critic did not merely condemn the policy; he anathematised it as an assault on freedom."
Its name began with a religious offering, but its modern meaning is almost the reverse: an emphatic curse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of anathematise
The word comes through Latin from Greek anathēma, a term that could denote something dedicated or offered to the gods and also a solemn curse. The English verb appeared in the early 17th century in the sense of pronouncing a curse or declaring someone anathema. Modern usage continues the stronger sense of emphatically condemning a person or thing as evil, while the British spelling -ise contrasts with the American -ize.
Related word forms
How anathematise is actually used
This is a formal, literary, and somewhat archaic word. It is markedly stronger than “condemn” and may suggest religious condemnation, repudiation, or a declaration that something is irredeemably evil.
Easily confused with anathematise
“Anathematise” is the standard British spelling, while “anathematize” is the standard US spelling; both have the same meaning.