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

Musk himself seems to abhor guardrails generally—except in cases where guardrails help him personally—preferring to hurriedly ship products, rapid unscheduled disassemblies be damned. —Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 8 July 2025

Gore gave it a listen, but was quickly abhorred by the salacious content. —Colson Thayer, People.com, 28 Apr. 2025

For all of the Closet’s viral success, Criterion’s executives seem to abhor talking about it as a marketing tool. —Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2025

That vibrant spirit abhors factory work, but thrives in breaking norms and turning brands into cultural touchstones. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

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