Anathematising

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Expressing a strong curse or denunciation against someone or something
2. Uttering a severe condemnation to show intense disapproval
3. Pronouncing a formal ban or vehement denunciation aimed to condemn

Etymology: "Anathematising" is the present participle of "anathematise," meaning to pronounce a formal curse or condemnation. The verb comes from "anathema," which in ancient Greek meant an offering set up or dedicated in a temple. Over time the sense darkened. Something devoted to a god was set apart from ordinary use, and the Septuagint and early Christian writers used "anathema" for a person or thing under a solemn curse, which is the sense the Church kept when it applied the term to excommunication.

Synonyms: cursing, damning, condemning

Antonyms: blessing, sanctifying