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Definition of condemn

condemn

/kənˈdɛm/
con · demn

Adjective:condemnable
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Past Simple:condemned
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Past Participle:condemned
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Present Participle:condemning
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condemn Lexical Profile

condemn Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To express complete and formal disapproval of something, typically in public.

Example

"International leaders were quick to condemn the unprovoked cyberattack on the hospital network."


2

To sentence someone to a particular, often severe punishment (especially in a court of law).

Example

"The tribunal voted to condemn the conspirators to lifelong exile."


3

To force or compel someone to endure an unpleasant, painful, or undesirable state or fate.

Example

"Lack of investment in rural schools can condemn an entire generation to limited economic mobility."


4

To officially declare a building, vehicle, or other structure to be unfit or unsafe for use or habitation.

Example

"City inspectors decided to condemn the abandoned warehouse after discovering severe structural damage."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for condemn
Antonyms
View all antonyms for condemn

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'condemn' (to express strong disapproval or sentence to punishment) with 'condone' (to accept, overlook, or allow behavior that is considered morally wrong).

• Rhymes for condemn

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French 'condemner', from Latin 'condemnare' (to sentence, blame, or convict), formed from the intensive prefix 'com-' and 'damnare' (to inflict loss upon or declare guilty), from 'damnum' (loss or damage).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Condemn. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/condemn
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