'detestability' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'detestabilis,' where 'de-' meant 'down from' and 'testari' meant 'to bear witness.'

'detestabilis' transformed into the Old French word 'detestable,' and eventually became the modern English word 'detestability' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'worthy of being cursed or condemned,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deserving intense dislike.'