Langimage
English

detestably

|de-test-a-bly|

C1

/dɪˈtɛstəbli/

(detestable)

intense dislike

Base FormAdverb
detestabledetestably
Etymology
Etymology Information

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

Historical Evolution

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

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bear witness against,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deserving intense dislike.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is detestable or deserving of intense dislike.

He behaved detestably at the party, offending almost everyone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/03 08:46