Despise

Despise is a verb meaning to feel a strong sense of contempt, aversion, or disgust toward someone or something; to regard with scorn or disdain. It conveys more than simple dislike, signaling a judgment that the target is unworthy of respect. The term can apply to people, actions, ideas, or situations that are perceived as morally wrong, foolish, or repugnant.

Etymology traces despise to Old French despis(er), from Latin despicere, meaning “to look down on” (de- “down” + specere “to look”). Over time, the word has retained a sense of looking down on something with contempt.

In usage, despise is relatively strong and may imply a lasting attitude rather than a fleeting feeling. It is common in both formal and informal contexts, including moral or political discourse, literary narration, and personal critique. It can express condemnation of hypocrisy, cruelty, or deceit, among other qualities.

Common synonyms include detest, loathe, scorn, and contempt. Antonyms include admire, respect, and like. While similar to hate, despise emphasizes contended judgment and disdain more than active hostility.

See also: contempt, moral emotion, disdain. Notes on tone indicate that despise can be perceived as harsh or judgmental, so writers and speakers often choose alternatives when a softer expression is desired.