despised

Main Entry:: de·spise
Pronunciation:: \di-ˈspīz\
Function:: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s):: 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

\-ˈspīz-mənt\ noun

— de·spis·er

\-ˈspī-zər\ 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>.

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