despise
Translation
to despise, to scorn, to loathe
Examples
I despise people who are cruel to animals.
I despise people who are cruel to animals.
She despised him for his cowardice.
She despised him for his cowardice.
Grammar Patterns
((sb./sth.)) to despise (sb./sth.) I despise liars.
((sb.)) ((for sth.)) to despise (sb.) for (sth.) She despised him for his arrogance.
Similar Words
Synonyms: detest, loathe, scorn; Antonyms: admire, respect, love
Etymology
From Latin 'de-' (down) + 'specere' (to look at). Literally 'to look down on'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'looking down' on someone with 'spite'. It's a very strong form of dislike.