despise
de·spise
verb \di-ˈspīz\de·spisedde·spis·ing
Definition of DESPISE
transitive verb
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
See 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
Related to DESPISE
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>.
Learn More About DESPISE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: despisedness
Previous Word in the Dictionary: despisal
All Words Near: despise
Previous Word in the Dictionary: despisal
All Words Near: despise
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up despise? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
