despise
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.de·spise
transitive verb \di-ˈspīz\de·spisedde·spis·ing
Definition of DESPISE
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
Examples of DESPISE
- She was despised as a hypocrite.
- <I despise anchovies on pizza, and I refuse to eat them!>
Origin of DESPISE
Middle English, from Anglo-French despis-, stem of despire, from Latin despicere, from de- + specere to look — more at spy
First Known Use: 14th century
Synonym Discussion of DESPISE
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>.
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