despite

[dih-spahyt]

preposition

1. in spite of; notwithstanding.

noun

1. contemptuous treatment; insult.

2. malice, hatred, or spite.

verb (used with object)

despited, despiting 

1. Obsolete.,  to anger or annoy (someone) out of spite.

despite

/ dɪˈspaɪt /

preposition

1. in spite of; undeterred by

noun

1. archaic,  contempt; insult

2. rare,  (preposition) in spite of

verb

1. (tr) an archaic word for spite

Word History and Origins

Origin of despite¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; originally in despite of; Middle English despit, from Old French, from Latin dēspectus “view from a height, scorn,” originally past participle of dēspicere; despicable ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of despite¹

C13: from Old French despit, from Latin dēspectus contempt; see _despise

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in despite of, in spite of; notwithstanding.

   He was tolerant in despite of his background and education.

Synonym Study

See notwithstanding.

Example Sentences

But that will be of little comfort for two teams who, despite their status and history, look ill-equipped for this campaign.

From BBC

Mr McKeown said despite the infection being detected in only one house out of three, all birds on the site - estimated to be about 20,000 - will be culled.

From BBC

For now, the region holds its breath as negotiators prepare to gather in Egypt, hoping that despite deep mistrust and political fragility this round might finally open the way toward a ceasefire.

From BBC

Lutnick’s remarks make it clear that the scandal, despite being overshadowed in recent weeks by Kirk’s murder and international events, is still on the minds of many on the right.

From Salon

In recent years the band - who despite line-up changes have always retained a core of Roddy, Rod and drummer Colin Newton - revisited the record for a series of shows playing it in full.

From BBC

Related Words

• in spite of 
• regardless of www.thesaurus.com