execrable
UK: ˈɛksɪkrəb(ə)l | US: ˈɛksɪkrəb(ə)l
adj. extremely bad or unpleasant; deserving hatred or condemnation
adj. detestable; abominable
execrable = ex<out> + ecr<sacred> + able<adjective suffix>
- ex (Latin: "out of, away from") → Implies separation or intensity.
- ecr (from Latin sacer: "sacred") → Originally tied to religious condemnation (what is "cast out from the sacred").
- able (Latin -abilis) → Forms adjectives meaning "capable of being."
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin execrabilis ("accursed, detestable"), the word combines ex- (intensifying "out") + sacer ("sacred"). Paradoxically, it evolved to mean "so vile it is expelled from the sacred," reflecting ancient taboos. Over time, ecr lost its direct tie to "sacred" in English, leaving a sense of utter loathing.
The dictator’s execrable crimes shocked the world.
She found the movie’s violence execrable and walked out.
The hotel’s execrable service ruined their vacation.
His execrable manners made him unwelcome at formal events.
Pollution has turned the river into an execrable mess.