hatred

noun

ha·​tred ˈhā-trəd How to pronounce hatred (audio)
1
: extreme dislike or disgust : hate
2
: ill will or resentment that is usually mutual : prejudiced hostility or animosity
old racial prejudices and national hatredsPeter Thomson

Examples of hatred in a Sentence

He had an irrational fear and hatred of foreigners. She makes no attempt to conceal her hatred for her opponents. This troubled city is filled with hatred, prejudice, crime, and fear. The war was fueled by hatreds that were centuries old.
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.
Many were subjected to many forms of hatred spawned from these misunderstandings. Meredith Kile, People.com, 21 July 2025 Despite his extensive progressive bona fides, Wertham’s hatred of the comics medium has forever branded him a right-wing zealot in the minds of comic fans. Vasilis K. Pozios, HollywoodReporter, 18 July 2025 But, all in all, a better and stronger presidential performance, Hutson suggested, than many with their blind hatred of Trump can see, or are willing to acknowledge. Mark Z. Barabak, Twin Cities, 15 July 2025 Using the right of free speech to sow hatred and division does no benefit to our country and will not make domestic security any easier. Chicago Tribune, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for hatred

Word History

Etymology

Middle English hatrede, from hate hate entry 1 + -rede, suffix denoting state or quality, going back to Old English -rǣden — more at kindred entry 2

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hatred was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Hatred.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hatred. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

hatred

noun
ha·​tred ˈhā-trəd How to pronounce hatred (audio)

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