despise
verb (used with object)
to regard with contempt, distaste, disgust, or disdain; scorn; loathe.
despised
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past participleof despise.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof despise.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
despiseverb (used with object)to regard with contempt, distaste, disgust, or disdain; scorn; loathe.
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.
But Rickey, a devout Methodist, also despised bigotry, which he considered un-Christian.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 30, 2026
It’s about understanding that that the removal of a single despised figurehead isn’t enough.
From Salon ● May 8, 2026
Bogle almost certainly would’ve despised cryptocurrency ETFs as speculative instruments that produce no cash flow.
From Barron's ● Mar. 25, 2026
Over the next few days, I did what any rational woman falling for a man with a cat she despised would do.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 13, 2026
The prince will protect himself against this danger by avoiding being either hated or despised and by keeping the people satisfied with him.
From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli
