loathing

noun

loath·​ing ˈlō-t͟hiŋ How to pronounce loathing (audio)
Synonyms of loathing
: extreme disgust : detestation
She regarded his hypocrisy with loathing.

Synonyms of loathing

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Examples of loathing in a Sentence

She expressed her intense loathing of his hypocrisy. She regarded his hypocrisy with loathing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Niall tells Ruben that his hurtful language over the years was a big part of his endless self-loathing. — Barry Levitt, Time, 29 May 2026 There’s a queasiness to her self-loathing that feels especially potent to the teenage experience. — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 26 June 2026 Rodrigo’s fans are young—some very young—and her music is perky, composed, and telegenic in a way that can distract from how much darkness and loathing lurk within it. — Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 15 June 2026 Instead, the dusty guitar riffs and heartbeat-monitoring beeps sound like Portishead on a journey of fear and loathing through the Nevada desert. — Dean Van Nguyen, Pitchfork, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loathing

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of loathing was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing loathing

Browse Nearby Words

loathful
loathing
loathingly
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Cite this Entry

“Loathing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loathing. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

loathing

noun
loath·​ing
ˈlō-t͟hiŋ
: very great dislike : extreme disgust

More from Merriam-Webster on loathing

Nglish: Translation of loathing for Spanish Speakers

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