con·demn
(kən-dĕḿ)
[Middle English condemnen, from Old French condemner, from Latin condemnāre, com-, intensive pref.; see com–, + damnāre, to sentence (from damnum, penalty).]
transitive verb: -demned, -demn·ing, -demns.
- To express strong disapproval of: condemned the needless waste of food.
- To pronounce judgment against; sentence: condemned the felons to prison.
- To judge or declare to be unfit for use or consumption, usually by official order: condemn an old building.
- To lend credence to or provide evidence for an adverse judgment against: were condemned by their actions.
- Law To appropriate (property) for public use.
derivatives
- con·deḿna·ble
- adjective
- con·deḿna·tóry
- adjective
- con·demńer
- noun
synonyms:
condemn, damn, doom, sentence These verbs mean to determine the punishment or destiny of one found to be guilty or undeserving: condemned the dissident to hard labor; damned the murderer to everlasting misery; an attempt that was doomed to failure; sentenced the traitor to life in prison.- See also: criticize
