Damnable

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˈdæm.nə.bəl/

Phonetic: DAM-nuh-buhl

Definitions

• Deserving condemnation, punishment, or severe criticism.
• Extremely bad, annoying, or detestable.

Usage Examples

• "His damnable actions caused great suffering."
• "The damnable noise kept me awake all night."

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "damnable," from Old French "damnable," and from Latin "damnabilis," meaning "worthy of condemnation." The root "damnare" means "to condemn."

Synonyms

• Condemnable
• Blameworthy
• Detestable
• Wicked
• Hateful

Antonyms

• Praiseworthy
• Commendable
• Virtuous
• Honorable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdæm.nə.bəl/
• American English: /ˈdæm.nə.bəl/
• Australian English: /ˈdæm.nə.bəl/

Historical Usage

The word "damnable" has been used in religious and moral contexts since the Middle Ages to describe acts worthy of divine punishment. Over time, it has been adopted in secular language to express extreme disapproval.

Cultural Nuances

In religious contexts, "damnable" historically referred to sins leading to eternal punishment. In modern usage, it is often used in a hyperbolic or humorous sense to describe irritating or intolerable situations.

More Information

The term "damnable" retains its strong connotation of condemnation but is less frequently used in casual speech. It appears in literary works, religious discourse, and formal criticisms. While its religious significance has diminished, it still carries weight in expressions of moral outrage.