What does anathematise mean?
Anathematize is a formal and solemn verb that means to declare or decree that someone or something is accursed, or to excommunicate or expel someone from a church or community. It is typically used in a religious or ecclesiastical context, but can also be used figuratively to describe the formal declaration of someone or something as unacceptable or accursed. The word has a long history, dating back to the 14th century, and is derived from the Greek word 'anathema', meaning 'thing accursed'. In modern usage, anathematize is often used to describe the formal declaration of someone or something as unacceptable or accursed, and is typically used in a formal or solemn tone. It is an important word in the English language, particularly in the context of religion and politics.
verbTo formally and solemnly declare or decree that someone or something is accursed, or to excommunicate or expel someone from a church or community.
- To formally and solemnly declare or decree that someone or something is accursed, or to excommunicate or expel someone from a church or community.
"The church anathematized the heretic, declaring him to be outside the bounds of Christian fellowship."
"The church anathematized the heretic, declaring him to be outside the bounds of Christian fellowship."
"The politician was anathematized by his opponents for his controversial stance."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple instances of anathematization.
"The church anathematized several heretics, declaring them to be outside the bounds of Christian fellowship."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of anathematise
The word 'anathematize' is derived from the Greek word 'anathema', meaning 'thing accursed'. This word was first used in the 14th century to describe the formal declaration of someone or something as accursed. Over time, the word evolved to include the sense of excommunicating or expelling someone from a church or community. Today, 'anathematize' is used in a variety of contexts, including religion, politics, and literature.
How anathematise is actually used
This verb is formal and solemn in tone, and is typically used in a religious or ecclesiastical context. It can also be used figuratively to describe the formal declaration of someone or something as unacceptable or accursed.