despise

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb despise differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of despise are contemn, disdain, and scorn. While all these words 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

When can contemn be used instead of despise?

While in some cases nearly identical to despise, contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious.

contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

When might disdain be a better fit than despise?

The meanings of disdain and despise largely overlap; however, disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music

When would scorn be a good substitute for despise?

While the synonyms scorn and despise are close in meaning, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt.

scorns the very thought of retirement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of despise Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was despised by first lady Jill Biden and was semi-alienated from Harris. Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 1 May 2025 The series follows two colleagues from vastly different backgrounds who initially despise each other. Jamie Lang, Variety, 29 Apr. 2025 Republicans despise him already (as Democrats always have). Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 25 Apr. 2025 As much as people despise Nico for this trade, this prediction may be right. Mac Engel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for despise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for despise
Verb
  • While Monty loves to run around in the rain, Sam hates getting wet, avoiding the water at all costs.
    Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025
  • Aside: Her daughters, when young, hated when the former Vogue fashion editor reached for leggings.
    Jackie Fields, People.com, 12 May 2025
Verb
  • Watson Coleman said that ICE attempted to delay and dissuade the lawmakers from entering the facility and ultimately disregarded their authority.
    Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025
  • Executive overreach and disregard for the jurisdiction, independence, and Orders of courts is red meat for populist leaders and their followers.
    Mark A. Cohen, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
Verb
  • The new digital feature will allow individuals who have either forgotten their Social Security number or who have lost their Social Security cards to access their personal number online through the agency’s My Social Security website.
    Lorie Konish, CNBC, 11 May 2025
  • And don’t forget to sign the honor code when you’re done.
    Patricia Schultheis, Baltimore Sun, 11 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Despise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/despise. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on despise

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