despise
Despise (verb) means to feel strong contempt or scorn for someone or something. Example: “She despised him for lying to her family.”
How to use despise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo hate and look down on someone or something at the same time.
Don't confuse with "despite" (meaning "in spite of") — the words look similar but are unrelated in meaning.
Word forms
despised past tense, despises singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ him for lying to her family.
Etymology
From Old French despire, from Latin despicere, "to look down upon" — from de- ("down") and specere ("to look").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for despise
See all rhymes for despise →Frequently asked questions
What does “despise” mean?
The word “despise” means to feel strong contempt or scorn for someone or something. In plain terms, to hate and look down on someone or something at the same time.
How do you pronounce “despise”?
“Despise” is pronounced dih-SPYZ (/dɪˈspaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “despise” in a sentence?
Here is “despise” used in a sentence: “She despised him for lying to her family.”
What is another word for “despise”?
Words with a similar meaning to “despise” include contemn, despect, disrespect, disdain, disesteem and look down on.
What is the opposite of “despise”?
The opposite of “despise” — its antonyms — are admire, appreciate, cherish, esteem and respect.
What part of speech is “despise”?
“Despise” is a verb.
Where does the word “despise” come from?
The word “despise” comes from Latin. From Old French despire, from Latin despicere, "to look down upon" — from de- ("down") and specere ("to look").
Is “despise” a common word?
“Despise” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.