First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
despise
verb de·spise \di-ˈspīz\
: to dislike (something or someone) very much
de·spisedde·spis·ing
Full 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
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Origin of DESPISE
Middle English, from Anglo-French despis-, stem of despire, from Latin despicere, from de- + specere to look — more at spy
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>.
DESPISED Defined for Kids
despise
verb de·spise \di-ˈspīz\
de·spisedde·spis·ing
Definition of DESPISE for Kids
: to feel scorn and dislike for
Synonym Discussion of DESPISE
despise and scorn mean to consider a person or thing as not worth noticing or taking an interest in. despise may be used of feeling ranging from strong dislike to true hatred. <I despise liars.> scorn is used of a deep and ready feeling of angry disgust for anything that a person doesn't respect. <The sergeant scorned the soldiers who were lazy.>
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