This adjective describes something that should be thrown away or rejected as worthless. Classical Greek used it for things unworthy of keeping. Paul uses it in 1 Timothy 4:4 in a positive construction: 'nothing God created is to be rejected' if received with thanksgiving. The broader context addresses false teachers who forbid certain foods. Paul's point: creation is good; asceticism that rejects God's gifts dishonors the Creator. The term emphasizes unfitness for use or acceptance, which Paul denies applies to any food received gratefully.