despise

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb despise differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of despise are contemn, disdain, and scorn. While all these words 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

When can contemn be used instead of despise?

While in some cases nearly identical to despise, contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious.

contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

When might disdain be a better fit than despise?

The meanings of disdain and despise largely overlap; however, disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music

When would scorn be a good substitute for despise?

While the synonyms scorn and despise are close in meaning, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt.

scorns the very thought of retirement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of despise It’s never made clear why Michelle despises Neurocasters, leaving us to extrapolate her rationale. Courtney Howard, Variety, 7 Mar. 2025 President Trump famously despises leaks within his administration. Cate Martel, The Hill, 26 Mar. 2025 As our story made clear, Vought despises the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies, a core Republican ally in bringing conservative voices into the judiciary and federal law enforcement. Stephen Engelberg, ProPublica, 20 Mar. 2025 He is also known as the controversial and brash leader who despised idleness and, after creating a monarchy in Haiti in 1811, eventually suffered a tragic end. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for despise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for despise
Verb
  • Love it or hate it, there are certainly strong feelings being shared about Shein, Temu, tariffs, and the pending price hike.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Billie Eilish used to hate her name But now, the Oscar and Grammy Award-winning singer has had a change of perspective.
    Jade Walker, CNN Money, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The case has fueled concern among Democrats and legal scholars that President Trump is increasingly willing to disregard U.S. courts.
    Michael Wilner, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Critics argue that Garcia's deportation reflects a broader pattern of disregarding constitutional rights, sparking concerns over the erosion of legal protections in the country's justice system.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • But do not forget to order the beloved DK bacon maple bar.
    Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Don't forget to check out yesterday's Best Laptop Deal of the Day for April 15.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 16 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Despise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/despise. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on despise

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