1. Plural of anathema; things or people that are cursed, condemned, or utterly detested.
Usage: formal; literary
2. In religious contexts, formal ecclesiastical curses or excommunications (plural of anathema).
Usage: religious; historical

Examples

• The ancient texts listed various anathemata pronounced against heretics.
• Corruption and dishonesty were anathemata to the organization's founding principles.
• The council issued formal anathemata against those who rejected the doctrine.
• Such cruelty was considered anathemata in civilized society.
• The reformers viewed the old practices as anathemata that needed to be abolished.