Meaning & Definition of word "Despise"

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    Despise

    /dɪˈspaɪz/

    verb:

    • 1. To regard with disdain or scorn; to feel a strong aversion to.
      • Example: She despises dishonesty in all its forms.
    • 2. To dislike or have a strong dislike for someone or something.
      • Example: He despises waiting in long lines at the supermarket.
    • 3. To have contempt for; to consider unworthy of regard.
      • Example: They despise anyone who tries to take advantage of others.
    • 4. To look down upon; to observe with disapproval.
      • Example: He despised the idea of cheating to get ahead in life.

    Etymology

    From Old French 'despiser', from Latin 'despiciare', meaning to look down upon.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    despise someone:

    To have intense dislike or contempt for someone.

    despise something:

    To regard something with disdain or as worthless.

    Related Words

    disdain:

    The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of consideration.

    scorn:

    The feeling or belief that something is worthless.

    loathe:

    To feel intense aversion or disgust for.

    Slang Meanings of despise

    Meaning: Hate on

    Example Sentence: She really hates on people who think they're better than everyone else.

    Meaning: Shade

    Example Sentence: He threw shade at those who didn't respect his opinions.