despitefully

adverb

de·​spite·​ful·​ly -əlē How to pronounce despitefully (audio)
-li
Synonyms of despitefullynext
1
obsolete : contemptuously
2
: maliciously, malevolently, abusively
bless them that curse you, pray for them that despitefully use youLuke 6:28 (Authorized Version)

Word History

Etymology

Middle English despitfully, from despitful + -ly

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of despitefully was in the 15th century

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Despitefully.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/despitefully. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on despitefully

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!