loathing

noun

loath·​ing ˈlō-t͟hiŋ How to pronounce loathing (audio)
Synonyms of loathingnext
: extreme disgust : detestation
She regarded his hypocrisy with loathing.

Examples of loathing in a Sentence

She expressed her intense loathing of his hypocrisy. She regarded his hypocrisy with loathing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Through it all, however, West struggled with depression and a sense of self-loathing, and had trouble with intimacy, much of it a by-product of a hardscrabble childhood in West Virginia with a domineering father. Stuart Miller, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026 However genuine their connection, their paths were forged in deception and self-loathing. Andy Andersen, Vulture, 13 Apr. 2026 Every game is played away from home, the atmosphere always feels hostile and the wild-west of social media means the anger and loathing persist long after a match has ended. Graham Scott, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2026 On the group’s fourth album in six years, there are songs about doomscrolling, drinking, drugs, and self-loathing—alongside themes of breakups, addiction, and the yearning for a different future. Lily Moayeri, SPIN, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loathing

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of loathing was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Loathing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loathing. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

loathing

noun
loath·​ing
ˈlō-t͟hiŋ
: very great dislike : extreme disgust

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