Synonyms of despise

despise

verb

di-ˈspīz 

1

as in to hate

to dislike strongly

I despise anchovies on pizza, and I refuse to eat them!

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hate
• detest
• loathe
• abhor
• abominate
• disdain
• execrate
• have it in for
• disapprove (of)
• scorn
• deplore
• deprecate
• discountenance
• disfavor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• love
• like
• prefer
• desire
• enjoy
• favor
• fancy
• relish
• admire
• adore
• approve (of)
• worship
• revere
• esteem
• treasure
• cherish
• idolize
• prize
• venerate
• hallow

2

as in to disregard

to ignore in a disrespectful manner

a traitor hated and despised by the whole community

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disregard
• forget
• scorn
• dismiss
• neglect
• overlook
• flout
• disparage
• pass over
• belittle
• deprecate
• slight
• slur (over)
• overpass

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• accept
• use
• approve

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

Recent Examples of despise

His pushback against an effort to overhaul capital requirements earned him praise from Washington allies of the banking industry, which despised that proposal. —Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 29 Sep. 2025

This alone was enough to ensure they were despised by others. —Literary Hub, 17 Sep. 2025

The two men now despise one another. —Kansas City Star, 16 Sep. 2025

Maybe your coworker has an upcoming presentation to senior leadership or your friend despises mushrooms. —Lorraine K. Lee, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2025