Odious
Adjective
Definition: Deserving or causing hatred; hateful; detestable.
Synonyms: Repulsive, Loathsome, Abhorrent, Revolting
Antonyms: Likable, Pleasant, Attractive
Examples:
- The dictator's odious actions led to widespread suffering.
- The odor emanating from the garbage can was truly odious.
Mnemonics:
- If something or someone is odious, they are so repulsive that you "O-die" (O-die-us)
- Think of words like "offensive" and "obnoxious" to associate with odious.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "odious" comes from the Latin word "odiosus", meaning full of hatred or loathing.
Historical Usage:The word has been in use since the late 16th century and has maintained its meaning of causing extreme dislike or repugnance throughout history.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"An odious person"
Explanation:This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who is deeply disliked or reviled by others.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Using "odious" interchangeably with "ordinary" due to similar spelling.
Explanation:The word "odious" should not be confused with "ordinary". "Odious" has a strong negative connotation, while "ordinary" simply means common or usual.