adj
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detestable
dih-TEHS-tuhbl
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 notesIn 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
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crime was universally condemned as _____.
Etymology
From Middle French détestable, built on detest + -able.
Synonyms
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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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