B2verbformalemotionsrelationships
US/dɪˈspaɪz/
UK/dɪˈspaɪz/
to dislike and have no respect for someone or something
In context
She despised people who lied to get ahead at work.
He despises himself for not speaking up when his friend needed help.
Many students despise exams, but few can avoid them completely.
Words that go with despise
verb + noun
- despise someoneShe despises anyone who treats waiters badly.
- despise the ideaHe despised the idea of asking his parents for money.
- despise weaknessThe coach despised weakness in any form.
adverb + verb
- openly despiseThey openly despised the new manager.
- secretly despiseHe secretly despised his rich neighbors.
- utterly despiseI utterly despise cruelty to animals.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I despise to wait in line.Correct: I despise waiting in line.