anathematize

/əˈnæ.θə.mə.taɪz/

Etymology

From anathema + -ize; the -t- is part of the root of the underlying Greek word ἀνάθεμα (anáthema) (albeit not visible in the nominative singular form), which also explains the plural anathemata and other derivations from anathema such as anathematic.

anathematize means To cause to be, or to declare as, an anathema or evil. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 83 out of 100.

Why this word is great

ANATHEMATIZE — [Verb] To pronounce a formal curse upon, or to denounce as evil, especially in a religious context. From Late Latin anathematizare, from Greek anathematizein, from anathema ("thing devoted, especially to evil; a curse"), from ana- ("up") + tithenai ("to put, place"). Unlike condemn, a general civic verdict, or execrate, which vents visceral loathing, to anathematize is a sacerdotal act of exile, a liturgical severing of soul from community. It is the bishop’s crozier striking the stone floor, the parchment of excommunication blackening in the brazier’s flame, the irrevocable words that turn a living person into a spiritual ghost—a ritualized severance that makes metaphysics manifest, the human wish to place damnation upon another like a stone.

verb

To cause to be, or to declare as, an anathema or evil.“These are the fellows that some officers never pretend to damn, however much they may anathematize others.”