Synonyms of abhor

abhor

verb

əb-ˈhȯr 

as in to hate

to dislike strongly

abhors the way people leave their trash at the picnic sites in the park

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hate
• despise
• detest
• loathe
• abominate
• execrate
• disdain
• have it in for
• deplore
• disapprove (of)
• scorn
• deprecate
• discountenance
• disfavor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• love
• like
• prefer
• desire
• favor
• enjoy
• relish
• fancy
• admire
• approve (of)
• adore
• worship
• revere
• cherish
• treasure
• esteem
• idolize
• venerate
• prize
• hallow

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb abhor contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of abhor are abominate, detest, hate, and loathe. While all these words mean "to feel strong aversion or intense dislike for," abhor implies a deep often shuddering repugnance.

a crime abhorred by all

When can abominate be used instead of abhor?

In some situations, the words abominate and abhor are roughly equivalent. However, abominate suggests strong detestation and often moral condemnation.

abominates all forms of violence

When could detest be used to replace abhor?

The words detest and abhor are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, detest suggests violent antipathy.

detests cowards

In what contexts can hate take the place of abhor?

Although the words hate and abhor have much in common, hate implies an emotional aversion often coupled with enmity or malice.

hated the enemy with a passion

When would loathe be a good substitute for abhor?

The synonyms loathe and abhor are sometimes interchangeable, but loathe implies utter disgust and intolerance.

loathed the mere sight of them

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of abhor

But the Wit, if used too often, is a perilous magic, and one abhorred by the nobility. — Ashlee Conour, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026

Mertz abhors food waste, down to the micro level. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2026

The Replacements Nature abhors a vacuum, and so does the lending market. — Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 24 Mar. 2026

The problem is, the internet abhors a vacuum. — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 19 Mar. 2026

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