loathsome

adjective

loath·​some ˈlōth-səm  ˈlōt͟h- 

: giving rise to loathing : disgusting

a loathsome disease

Smoking is a loathsome habit.

loathsomely adverb

loathsomeness noun

Synonyms of loathsome

• disgusting
• ugly
• awful
• horrible
• sickening
• hideous
• obnoxious
• obscene
• shocking
• dreadful
• offensive
• nasty

Examples of loathsome in a Sentence

we traced the foul smell to a pile of loathsome garbage by the back wall

Recent Examples on the Web

Given French’s loathsome history, Abbott and others in the party establishment worked hard to keep him from winning the Republican nomination, Rice noted. — Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2026

Kraus’ paean to peace is written in the most luxurious and loathsome language imaginable — in one very long and fractured sentence. — The Know, Denver Post, 6 Sep. 2026

People commonly used tobacco to treat many ailments, including indigestion, respiratory problems, pain and loathsome mouth afflictions. — Katherine Ott, The Conversation, 2 July 2026

Platner is loathsome in so many ways. — Howie Carr, Boston Herald, 3 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lothsum, from loth evil, from Old English lāth, from lāth, adjective

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

loathsome

adjective

loath·​some ˈlōth-səm  ˈlōt͟h- 

: very unpleasant : offensive

loathsomely adverb

loathsomeness noun