'detest' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'detestari,' where 'de-' meant 'down from' and 'testari' meant 'to bear witness.'

'detestari' transformed into the French word 'detester,' and eventually became the modern English word 'detest' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to call God to witness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to dislike intensely.'