v.
Pronunciation: di- ' sp ī z
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: de · spised ; de · spis · ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French despis-, stem of despire, from Latin despicere, from de- + specere to look ― more at SPY
Date: 14th century
1 : to look down on with contempt or aversion < despised the weak>
2 : to regard as negligible, worthless, or distasteful
– de · spise · ment \ - ' sp ī z-m ə nt \ noun
– de · spis · er \ - ' sp ī -z ə r \ noun
synonyms 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>.