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adj C1 Advanced

detestable

dih-TEHS-tuhbl
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Detestable (adj) means So unpleasant or wicked as to inspire hatred or disgust. Example: “The crime was universally condemned as detestable.”

adj
1
So unpleasant or wicked as to inspire hatred or disgust.
"The crime was universally condemned as detestable."

How to use detestable

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDeserving to be hated — utterly repugnant.

Common pairings
a detestable act find something detestable
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Word forms

Comparative
more detestable
Superlative
most detestable
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Can you complete this real example?

The crime was universally condemned as _____.

Etymology

From Middle French détestable, built on detest + -able.

Origin: Middle French

Related words

Rhymes for detestable

See all rhymes for detestable →

Frequently asked questions

What does “detestable” mean?
The word “detestable” means so unpleasant or wicked as to inspire hatred or disgust. In plain terms, deserving to be hated — utterly repugnant.
How do you pronounce “detestable”?
“Detestable” is pronounced dih-TEHS-tuhbl (/dɪˈtɛstəbl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “detestable” in a sentence?
Here is “detestable” used in a sentence: “The crime was universally condemned as detestable.”
What part of speech is “detestable”?
“Detestable” is an adjective.
Where does the word “detestable” come from?
The word “detestable” comes from Middle French. From Middle French détestable, built on detest + -able.

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