Abhor Meaning and Definition
Abhor
Pronunciation
/ˈæbɔː/
Part of Speech
Verb or Noun
Definition
A feeling of intense dislike, hatred, or disgust; a strong aversion to something.
Examples
1. “She abhors the smell of garlic in her food.”
2. “Abhorrence towards violence is a fundamental human value.”
Synonyms
1. Detest
2. Loathe
Antonyms
1. Admire
2. Appreciate
Additional Information
Abhorrence is a natural human emotion that can be sparked by various factors, including personal experiences, cultural norms, or moral principles. It is often used to describe a strong and intense feeling of dislike or hatred, which can manifest in different ways, such as avoiding certain situations or objects. Abhorrence can be a powerful motivator for change, encouraging individuals to take action against injustices or abuse. In some cases, abhorrence can also be a hindrance, leading to irrational or extreme behavior. Understanding and managing one’s abhorrence is essential for maintaining emotional well-being and contributing to a more compassionate society.
Abhorrence has been a prominent theme in many literary and philosophical works throughout history. Authors such as Shakespeare and Dickens have used abhorrence to explore complex human emotions and societal issues. In modern times, abhorrence remains a relevant topic in discussions around social justice, equality, and human rights.
The concept of abhorrence is closely tied to emotions like disgust and revulsion, which can be triggered by various stimuli, including visual, olfactory, or tactile experiences. Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying abhorrence can provide valuable insights into the human brain’s emotional processing and decision-making.
Abhorrence is not always a fixed or absolute emotion; it can evolve and change over time as individuals grow, learn, and experience new situations. Recognizing and challenging one’s abhorrence can be a transformative process, allowing individuals to broaden their perspectives and develop empathy for others.
Abhorrence can also be a collective phenomenon, reflecting societal values and norms. For instance, widespread abhorrence towards certain behaviors or practices can lead to social and cultural change. Understanding and addressing collective abhorrence requires a nuanced and empathetic approach, taking into account diverse perspectives and experiences.
Etymology
The word “abhor” originates from the Old French word “abhorre,” which is derived from the Latin word “abhorreare,” meaning “to shun” or “to detest.” The word has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal values and cultural norms.
Usage Notes
The word “abhor” can be used as both a verb (e.g., “She abhors violence”) and a noun (e.g., “Her abhorrence towards smoking is well-known”). In both cases, it describes a strong negative feeling towards something.
When used as a verb, “abhor” typically takes the object of the thing or person being disliked. For example, “I abhor the smell of fish” implies that the speaker has a strong dislike for the smell of fish.
When used as a noun, “abhorrence” refers to the feeling or attitude itself. For instance, “Her abhorrence towards racism is admirable” highlights the speaker’s positive opinion of the person’s strong dislike for racism.
Cultural References
The word “abhor” has appeared in various literary and philosophical works, including Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” and Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities.” In modern times, it has been used in contexts such as social justice movements and human rights discussions.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Abhorrent behavior” – behavior that is deeply disliked or hated.
2. “Abhorrent circumstances” – circumstances that are deeply unpleasant or unacceptable.
Collocations
1. “Abhor violence” – to strongly dislike or hate violence.
2. “Abhor racism” – to strongly dislike or hate racism.
Frequency of Use
The word “abhor” is not as commonly used as other words with similar meanings, such as “hate” or “loathe.” However, it is still employed in various contexts, particularly in more formal or academic writing.
Common Misspellings
1. Apor – a misspelling of the word “abhor.”
2. Ahor – another misspelling of the word “abhor.”