Meaning & Definition of word "Despise"

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.