v.tr. 1 express utter disapproval of; censure (was condemned for his irresponsible behaviour). 2 a find guilty; convict. b (usu. foll. by to) sentence to (a punishment, esp. death). c bring about the conviction of (his looks condemn him). 3 pronounce (a building etc.) unfit for use or habitation. 4 (usu. foll. by to) doom or assign (to something unwelcome or painful) (condemned to spending hours at the kitchen sink). 5 a declare (smuggled goods, property, etc.) to be forfeited. b pronounce incurable. condemned cell a cell for a prisoner condemned to death. condemnable adj. condemnation n. condemnatory adj.
[ ME f. OF condem(p)ner f. L condemnare (as com-, damnare damn) ]