offend
verb (used with object)
to irritate, annoy, or anger; cause resentful displeasure in.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I would worry about offending my children, but they stopped reading after the first paragraph.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
Its public statements “proved hollow when it came to taking disciplinary measures against offending students and faculty.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
When regulators shut down some offending WeChat accounts, the operators simply migrated to other platforms such as Douyin, Banyuetan said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 10, 2026
Simons said public services "have to get better at recognising patterns of offending" before attackers become "emboldened".
From BBC ● Aug. 8, 2026
At the sight of the early morning, Ess was so awestruck, she withdrew the offending finger to raise both hands skyward in delight.
From "Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder
