Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Condemnation”
The biblical word “Condemnation” traces back to Greek (katakrisis (κατάκρισις), katakrinō (κατακρίνω)), where it meant “A judgment against someone; judicial sentence or verdict of guilty”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “An expression of strong disapproval; or a judicial declaration of guilt and punishment”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Greek
Greekkatakrisis (κατάκρισις), katakrinō (κατακρίνω)A judgment against someone; judicial sentence or verdict of guilty
From kata (against) + krinō (to judge). Romans 5:16 contrasts katakrima (condemnation) with charisma (gift of grace); used in John 3:18 of those not believing in Christ.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatincondemnatioThe act of pronouncing judgment against sin; divine judgment or damnation
Latin condemnatio from condemnare (condemn). Medieval theologians used this for God's judgment on sin and eternal damnation.
Modern English
EnglishcondemnationAn expression of strong disapproval; or a judicial declaration of guilt and punishment
From Old French via Latin. In theology, refers to God's judgment against sin; in secular use, public disapproval.