Main Entry: de·spise

Pronunciation: \di-ˈspīz\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): de·spised; de·spis·ing

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French despis-, stem of despire, from Latin despicere, from de- + specere to look — more at spy

Date: 14th century

1 : to look down on with contempt or aversion <despised the weak>
2 : to regard as negligible, worthless, or distasteful

— de·spise·ment \-ˈspīz-mənt\ noun

— de·spis·er \-ˈspī-zər\ noun

synonyms despise, contemn, scorn, disdain mean to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration. despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing <despises cowards>. contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious <contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers>. scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt <scorns the very thought of retirement>. disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy <disdained popular music>.